Living Will & Power Of Attorney

Preparing a living will and power of attorney takes the burden off your loved ones to make decisions for you, should you be unable to make them for yourself.

A living will is a document for your health care providers, pertaining to your wishes for care if you become incapacitated. A power of attorney (POA) designates a person to make decisions for you, or your estate, should you be unable to make decisions for yourself.

The power of attorney lawyers at Biernacki & Associates can give you peace of mind by ensuring your intentions are known in the case of emergency. They will help you draft a general durable power of attorney or living will, freeing your loved ones from making difficult decisions during a stressful time. Call (412) 557-7726 today to schedule your free consultation.

What Are The Power Of Attorney Requirements In Pennsylvania?

In Pennsylvania, a general durable power of attorney gives you (the principal) the opportunity to give a trusted person (the agent) the authority to act on your behalf should you be unavailable or incapacitated.

Durable Power of Attorney Laws in Pennsylvania require the POA to be dated and signed by the principal, in the presence of two adult witnesses and be notarized. If you are unable to physically sign the document, you may make a mark, such as an “x”, or direct another to sign on your behalf. If someone is needed to sign on your behalf, that person cannot act as witness to the signing.

Pennsylvania law requires specific language and acknowledgments be included in any POA. The power of attorney lawyers at Biernacki & Associates will review the requirements with you to ensure your POA is legally recognized.

Do I Need A Living Will And Health Care Power Of Attorney?

In often makes sense to draft both a living will and a health care power of attorney. The health care power of attorney allows you to appoint a trusted person to make decisions regarding your medical care if you are unavailable to do so. For example, if you are suffering from dementia or are under general anesthesia and a decision about your care must be made.

A living will gives your physician instructions regarding your wishes to receive, or avoid, life-sustaining treatment. A living will goes into effect when you are in a permanently unconscious state as a result of an accident or end-stage medical condition.

In either case, you retain all power over your health care decisions unless a time comes when a medical professional determines you are no longer able to do so or at a time specified as part of your directive.

Experienced Power Of Attorney Lawyer, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

The power of attorney lawyers at Biernacki & Associates have years of experience guiding clients through the estate planning process. They provide each client with a one-on-one, personalized strategy, to help you protect your assets and stay in control of your estate. Contact them today for your free consultation.