As Mark Twain once pointed out, we can all be certain of death. Given that certainty, it just makes good sense to prepare for it. In fact, the preparation of a blueprint to ensure that your wishes are carried out upon your death is one of the most important things you can do for your loved ones and for yourself.
You may also wish to leave instructions for your loved ones and caregivers in the event you become too ill to make those decisions. For example: What type of medical treatment do you wish to receive in the event of illness? How are your financial resources to be utilized for your care?
The attorneys at DBYD, who have worked sensitively in the fields of estate planning and elder law for more than thirty years, will be able to help with your many concerns and questions such as:
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Wills, Trusts, and Estate Planning – Why do I need a Last Will and Testament? How often must I change my Last Will and Testament? Why would I need a Trust? Do I still need a Last Will and Testament even if I am not wealthy? Is Estate Planning something different than preparing a Will?
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Health and Long-term Care – What will happen to me if I am no longer able to care for myself?
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Surrogate Decision Making – Who will make financial and medical decisions for me when I can no longer make them? Do I need a Power of Attorney? Do I need a Living Will? When should a guardian be appointed?
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Public Benefits – How much can I expect from Medicaid, Medicare, or Social Security?
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Legal Capacity Decisions – Can I make decisions about my mother’s or father’s health and finances if they are too sick to make them?
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Probate and Estate Administration and Litigation – What must I do now that my mother/father has died? How can I be sure that my parent knew what he/she was doing when the Will was signed?
We can help you plan and prepare for the future and ensure that your wishes will be carried out or help to clarify issues for your parents. Call a DBYD lawyer today.
Click here to view DBYD’s Your Legal House - Wills, Livings Wills and Powers of Attorney brochure.