Power of Attorney Archives - Lifescape Elder Care Law & Estate Planning

What is a Power of Attorney & Why is it Important?

by Katie Riordan | Oct 4, 2024 | Estate Planning, Power of Attorney

By Elijah Waugh A power of attorney is arguably the most important element of a thorough estate plan. This crucial document gives one or more individuals the authority to act on the signor’s behalf. This authority can be broad or limited in scope, can be immediately...

Is Your 18-23 Year Old Ready For The World?

by Katie Riordan | Jul 13, 2022 | Power of Attorney

Did you know when your child turns 18, you are no longer able to make financial or healthcare decisions for them? Being their parent does NOT allow you to make a decision for them if they are hurt, sick, injured and not able to speak for themselves. Here are some...

You Get What You Pay For: The Dangers of Self-written or Online Estate Plans

by Katie Riordan | Apr 15, 2022 | Estate Planning, Medicaid Planning, Power of Attorney

In the age of online do-it-yourself forms and wanting to save money, what are the pros and cons of self-written or online Estate Planning documents versus going to see an Elder Law Attorney? We often have people come in with their 1–3-page Durable Power of Attorney...

Danger’s of Making Your Child Co-Owner of Your Assets

by Katie Riordan | Feb 25, 2022 | Estate Planning, Learning Center, Power of Attorney

By: P. Glen Smith Granted, I’ve been preaching the message for decades and have a previous blog about placing your child on your accounts as a co-owner. But good folks just don’t seem to understand the reason and importance of the message. An Estate...

Who Do you Want to Make Financial Decisions for You?

by Katie Riordan | Feb 19, 2021 | Estate Planning, Power of Attorney

When you are no longer able to do so, who should you trust to manage your financial well being? A power of attorney (POA), otherwise known as an agent to your principal, has the legal authority to represent and make decisions on your behalf. What characteristics...

Being a “Fiduciary” in Missouri

by Katie Riordan | Dec 18, 2020 | Estate Planning, Power of Attorney

You may be asked to be a power of attorney for a family member or friend. Your person may be planning for when they might become unable to take care of their affairs. For example, they might become disabled or incapacitated, and they would need a trusted person to...