Why is having a Healthcare Power of Attorney (HPOA) and Durable Power of Attorney (DPOA) important while we’re seeing another wave of COVID resurge?
A HPOA and DPOA will assist you and your loved ones should anyone end up in the hospital on a ventilator or otherwise unable to communicate. Insurance arrangements need to occur and bills need to be paid no matter the circumstance. With a HPOA and DPOA, medical and financial decisions can occur immediately while you are incapacitated.
Without documents, someone must petition the court to become your legal guardian. A General Guardian consists of two roles:
1) Guardian of the Person
2) Guardian of the Estate.
A Guardian of the Person (“GOP”) is similar to a HPOA and a Guardian of the Estate (“GOE”) is similar to a DPOA. The main difference is that the HPOA and DPOA are drafted for the individual who selects who they want to take care of their health and financial affairs. The GOP and GOE are ordered by the court and the court determines who will take care of an individual’s affairs.
Becoming a Guardian can take up to 30 to 45 days, depending on the court docket and other factors such as serving the individual, obtaining medical records, obtaining bond insurance and notifying next of kin. Obtaining a Healthcare Power of Attorney and Durable Power of Attorney is a quick and simple process.
Take time today to set up an appointment. We’re ready to help you protect yourself and your loved ones.