What does it do?

A legal document in which you give another person permission to make medical decisions for you if you are unable to make those decisions yourself. 

For example…

Mary was diagnosed with dementia and can’t make a formal request for her medical records to transfer doctors. Without this document her family may have to file a case in court for a guardianship. 

This document is also called: Power of Attorney for Health Care, Designation of Surrogate, Patient Advocate, Designation Durable Power of Attorney For Health Care, Advance Health Care Directive 

What does it do?

A legal document in which you state your wishes about your end-of-life care. The document takes effect if you can’t communicate your own health care directives.  

For example…

John has been diagnosed with terminal cancer from which he is expected to die within six months. With the Directive to Physician, John can direct that all treatments, OTHER THAN THOSE NEEDED TO KEEP HIM COMFORTABLE, be discontinued or withheld and let him die as gently as possible. 

This document is also called: Living Will, Health Care Declaration, Medical Directive, Health Care Directive, Advance Health Care Directive 

What does it do?

Legal document in which you give a person you trust permission to manage and access your finances if you become incapacitated. 

For example…

Frank has an advanced stage of Alzheimer’s and dementia. He needs to access his bank account in order to pay for his medical and living expenses, but he cannot go out of his house. Without this document his family may have to file a case in court for a guardianship. 

This document is also called: Durable Power of Attorney for Finances 

What does it do?

Legal document that gives instructions on how to distribute your money, belongings, property, and anything else of value upon your passing. This document also allows you to leave instructions for the care of your minor children, pets, and digital accounts. 

For example…

George promised his youngest daughter that upon his passing she would inherit the house in which she grew up. If George passes without a Last Will and Testament, then all of his sons and daughters will have a right to claim a portion of the property. 

This document is also called: Will