Advance Directives: Sarah’s Story

In those critical moments when life is uncertain, the best friend you can have is someone who knows your wishes and can voice them on your behalf. Thats where a power of attorney can be a lifesaver for you. However, empowering someone with decisions related to end-of-life care, financial management, and other personal affairs is entrusting them with your life. No wonder, making this crucial choice can leave you feeling overwhelmed and confused.A Power of Attorney is a legal document authorizing someone (your agent) to act on your behalf to conduct financial or health decisions. The right Power of Attorney will align with your wishes, values, and specific circumstance. Several types of Power of Attorney arrangements exist, such as Limited, Durable, or Springing Power of Attorney. Choose the right attorney who is familiar with local laws and available when needed.Sign 1: Youre Unsure About the ProcessNavigating the legal systems and requirements can be daunting, especially when it comes to granting a Power of Attorney. A Power of Attorney is a document that allows someone else to act on your behalf in financial, medical, or other matters. Understanding the legal process for Power of Attorney is an essential first step.The Legal Process for Power of AttorneyThe process for obtaining a Power of Attorney varies from state to state. In some states, Powers of Attorney may need to be recorded. In Colorado. they are not. You must be at least 18 years old and of sound mind to create a Power of Attorney. This means that someone with advanced dementia or in a critical medical condition cannot sign a Power of Attorney. The document must be dated, signed, and should be witnessed by two adults.How a Lawyer Can Help Navigate the Legal ProcessIf youre feeling overwhelmed by the legal process, reaching out to an attorney to ensure your wishes are legally protected. A skilled Power of Attorney lawyer can help you understand the requirements and processes specific to your state.At Burr-Law, we help our clients navigate the legal complexities of Powers of Attorney. We provide the necessary guidance and support to ensure you understand the process, your rights, and the responsibilities of the person youre appointing as your attorney-in-fact. We also assist in drafting and filing the necessary legal documents.Remember, the Power of Attorney is a powerful legal tool. It is important to seek legal assistance to ensure it is set up correctly and in line with your desires and laws.Sign 2: You Have Complex Financial or Medical IssuesLife can be unpredictable, throwing curveballs in the form of complex financial or medical issues. In such scenarios, the significance of having a Power of Attorney (POA) increases.The Role of Power of Attorney in Financial and Medical DecisionsA POA can be a crucial document in managing your affairs if youre unable to do so yourself. In Colorado there are two main types of POA: a General POA and a Health Care POA. The former allows someone to handle your financial, legal, or business matters, while the latter lets someone make medical decisions on your behalf.Your appointed agent under a General POA can have the power to buy and sell property, invest, and manage your retirement benefits, depending on the provisions you choose to include. On the other hand, a Health Care POA gives your agent the authority to make decisions regarding your medical care if you become incapacitated and cant decide for yourself.Why Complex Issues Require Professional Legal AssistanceIf you have intricate financial assets like multiple properties, businesses, or investments, managing them can be a complex task. Similarly, if youre dealing with a challenging medical condition, making the right healthcare decisions can be daunting. This is where a professional legal expert comes in.An experienced attorney can provide the necessary guidance and support in these matters. They can help you understand the potential implications of each decision, mitigate risks, and ensure your interests are protected.Moreover, if youre considering establishing a POA, its crucial to choose an agent you trust to carry out your wishes. A skilled attorney can help you navigate these personal decisions and create a POA that reflects your intentions and desires.If youre grappling with complex financial or medical issues, you need professional legal help. An attorney can provide the insights and expertise you need to handle these complexities effectively.In the next section, well explore another sign that indicates you need help finding a POA concerns about potential misuse of power.Sign 3: Youre Concerned About Potential Misuse of PowerConcerns about potential misuse of power are a valid reason to seek professional legal help when appointing a power of attorney. The person you select as your agent holds a significant amount of authority and can make critical decisions on your behalf. If this power is misused, it can lead to serious consequences.Risks of Misuse of Power of AttorneyThe misuse of power of attorney can take many forms. It could involve acting outside the scope of the Agents authority, making decisions that are not in your best interest, or exploiting their position for personal gain. If such abuse occurs, it can result in financial loss, damage to your reputation, and legal complications.For instance, the agent could make unauthorised financial transactions or fail to keep accurate records of actions taken on your behalf. In extreme cases, the agent might even use their power to harass or seek revenge on others.Sign 4: You Dont Have Time to Manage Your AffairsLife can get busy. Between work, family obligations, and personal commitments, you may find that you simply dont have the time to manage your own affairs, let alone take on the role of a power of attorney for someone else. This is a clear sign that you need help.The Time Commitment Required for Power of Attorney DutiesManaging someone elses financial affairs isnt a task to be taken lightly. It can involve everything from signing checks and making deposits to contracting for medical or professional services, selling property, procuring insurance, and managing everyday affairs. Its a time-consuming role that requires a significant commitment.Sign 5: Youre Unsure About the Responsibilities of a Power of AttorneyIf youre uncertain about what a power of attorney entails, its another sign you might need help from a professional. A power of attorney is a legal document that grants someone else the authority to act on your behalf in managing your financial affairs, especially when youre not capable of doing so yourself. This person, known as your Agent, can perform a variety of tasks such as signing your checks, making deposits for you, paying your bills, contracting for medical or other professional services, selling your property, and more. However, the scope of their authority varies depending on the specific terms outlined in your power of attorney document.Detailed Explanation of Power of Attorney ResponsibilitiesThe responsibilities of an agent can be broad or specific, depending on your needs and preferences. You can give your agent authority to do anything you could do. Alternatively, you can limit your agents authority to do only certain things, such as sell your home. If you want your agent to have authority when you are incapacitated, your power of attorney document must be durable. To do this, we add a clause to the document that you intend for the power of attorney to remain effective after any disability, incapacity, or by the lapse of time.Your agent must also sign an acknowledgement of responsibilities and duties before exercising authority. This acknowledgement sets forth the agents understanding of their duties and responsibilities. Responsibilities include acting in your best interest, managing your money and property carefully, and keeping your money and property separate from theirs.Remember, its crucial to appoint someone you trust and ensure they are willing to take on these responsibilities. If youre unsure about any aspect, reach out to us for assistance 720-500-2076.  

Have you ever wondered, Where do I find an attorney for wills and power of attorney near me? If so, you are not alone. Many individuals, just like you, recognize the importance of carefully planned and secured future but are unsure where to begin or who to trust with these essential decisions. Your estate encompasses everything you own your home, other real estate, bank accounts, investments, life insurance, furniture, personal possessions. However, planning for its distribution after your passing or taking the necessary precautions if incapacitation strikes unexpectedly isnt always straightforward.Not all of us are equipped to navigate the intricacies of these legal procedures or fully understand the implications of every clause in estate planning documents. Thats where an attorney well-versed in wills and powers of attorney comes in. Legal professionals offer relief from the burden of understanding complex legal jargon, and can also shed light on decision-making processes and help avoid pitfalls, ensuring your estates security and the future well-being of your loved ones.Heres a succinct overview of what our article offers: An insight into why Wills and Power of Attorney are essential The importance of hiring the right attorney for this process Tips on choosing the right attorney and the questions you should ask The subsequent sections will delve deeper into each of these topics, providing a comprehensive guide on securing an attorney for wills and powers of attorney nearby to help lead you on this journey with full confidence and assurance.Understanding the Importance of a WillA Will is a legal document that outlines how you want your assets distributed after your death. It may seem like a gloomy topic to ponder, but the truth is, creating a Will is an act of love and responsibility towards your loved ones. It ensures that your hard-earned assets go to the people you choose and not according to the state laws.The Role of a Will in Asset DistributionA Will is a powerful tool that gives you control over who gets what from your Estate. The assets you leave behind can include everything from houses, cars, and savings accounts, to personal items like jewelry and family heirlooms. The key here is control. A well-drafted Will allows you to specify who gets what, down to the last detail. This reduces the chance of family disputes and ensures that your assets are distributed according to your personal wishes and values.Consequences of Not Having a WillIf you pass away without a Will, your assets will be distributed according to your states intestacy laws. This means that the state decides who gets what, and this may not align with your wishes. Your loved ones may not receive the financial security you intended for them, and your estate may be subjected to unnecessary taxes and fees. As the saying goes, failing to plan is planning to fail.The Importance of a Will for Those Without a Spouse or ChildrenIf you do not have a spouse or children, having a Will is especially critical. Without one, the state will decide who gets your assets, and this could be someone you never intended to benefit from your estate. Creating a Will also helps preserve more of your assets for your loved ones. If the state has to appoint someone to manage and distribute your assets, that person will be paid a fee for their services. If, in your Will, you designate someone to perform this task, this costly fee can be waived.Understanding the importance of a Will is the first step towards safeguarding your assets and ensuring your loved ones are taken care of according to your wishes. It might seem like a daunting task but remember, you dont have to do it alone. An experienced attorney specializing in estate planning can guide you through the process, providing you with the peace of mind that comes from knowing your affairs are in order.The Power of Attorney: A Crucial Legal DocumentThe Power of Attorney is an essential legal document that allows a person, known as the Principal, to designate another person, known as the Agent, to act on their behalf should they become unable to manage their own affairs. This could be due to physical or mental incapacity, or even temporary unavailability.Understanding the Concept of Power of AttorneySeparate from a Will, a Power of Attorney only holds legal power while the Principal is alive. As per Burr Law, there are two main types of Powers of Attorney medical and financial (also called a General Power of Attorney).In a Financial Power of Attorney, the Principal designates a trusted decision maker (Agent) to act on their behalf if they become disabled or unable to manage their financial affairs. Depending on the provisions included, the Agent may have the power to buy and sell property, invest, and even manage retirement benefits.The Best Type of Power of Attorney to HaveThe most recommended type of Power of Attorney for most people is the General Durable Power of Attorney. This particular type gives the agent broad powers that remain in effect even if the Principal loses the ability to handle their own finances. This type of Power of Attorney can be customized to either limit or add powers, depending on the Principals wishes.The Role of an Attorney in Drafting a Power of AttorneyWhile many may be tempted to create a Power of Attorney by themselves, its better to work with an experienced attorney. Attorneys, like those of us at Burr-Law, can guide you through the process and help ensure that all the necessary provisions are included. Some critical provisions like the power to gift, make or change your estate plan, and prosecute and defend legal actions, may be overlooked when preparing for incapacity.A Power of Attorney is a crucial legal document that ensures that your financial affairs will be managed according to your wishes, even if you become unable to do so yourself. Both Medical and Financial Powers of Attorney are important, and its highly recommended to work with an experienced attorney for wills and powers of attorney when creating these documents.The Cost of Hiring an Attorney for Wills and Power of AttorneyWhen it comes to securing your future and protecting your loved ones, working with an attorney for wills and power of attorney near me is a wise investment. However, understanding the cost involved is crucial for planning and budgeting.Typical Charges for Drafting a WillThe cost of hiring an attorney to draft a will can vary significantly. The price usually depends on the complexity of your estate and your specific needs. For more comprehensive estate planning, including the creation of trust documents, healthcare, and financial powers of attorney, and other protective documents, the cost can increase.Factors Influencing the Cost of Hiring an AttorneySeveral factors can influence the cost of hiring an attorney for wills and power of attorney. Here are a few to consider: Complexity of the Estate: The more complex your estate is, the more work your attorney will need to do, and this can influence the cost. Experience of the Attorney: Experienced attorneys often charge higher fees due to their expertise and the value they bring to your estate planning process. Geographical Location: Attorneys in urban areas or regions with a higher cost of living may charge more than those in rural areas. Additional Services: If you require additional legal services beyond drafting a will and power of attorney, such as setting up trusts or handling probate, this will increase the cost. Choosing the Right Attorney for Wills and Powers of AttorneyChoosing the right attorney for your Wills and Powers of Attorney is a crucial step in your estate planning process. It is important to have a legal professional who not only has the expertise but also understands your unique needs and circumstances.Importance of Specialization in Estate PlanningEstate planning is a specialized area of law that requires a deep understanding of various legal aspects. Therefore, select an attorney who specializes in estate planning. An estate planning attorney typically handles not only the drafting of your Will, but also trust documents, Medical and Financial Powers of Attorney, Living Will, HIPAA release, and other documents that provide protection for your loved ones and assets, and help you avoid costly probate.Questions to Ask a Potential AttorneyBefore hiring an attorney, ask questions to understand their process, level of service, and professional experience. Some of the key questions to ask include their experience in estate planning, their approach towards customizing estate plans, how they manage changes in estate laws, and their fee structure. The responses to these questions will help you determine if the attorney is a good fit for your needs.How to Prepare for a Meeting with an Estate Planning AttorneyWhen meeting with a potential attorney, its good to come prepared. This includes having a clear understanding of your financial situation and an outline of your wishes regarding asset distribution. If possible, gather relevant documents such as existing Wills, trust documents, property deeds, financial statements, and insurance policies.The attorney-client relationship is a two-way street. Its not just about the attorney understanding your needs, but also about you feeling comfortable and confident in the attorneys ability to meet your needs. We believe a successful estate planning process involves proper coordination of legal documents and your financial and insurance plans.Choosing the right attorney for your Will and Power of Attorney involves careful consideration, but its a crucial step to ensure that your estate plan effectively protects your loved ones and assets.ConclusionIn the journey of estate planning, two key documents stand out Wills and Powers of Attorney. A well-drafted Will ensures your assets are distributed according to your wishes after your death, while a Power of Attorney empowers a trusted person to make important decisions on your behalf when youre unable to do so.These legal documents are more than just pieces of paperthey are instruments of security, offering peace of mind knowing your assets are protected and your loved ones are cared for. Theyre crucial tools in preventing family disputes, unnecessary legal hassles, and potential financial losses.The Role of an Attorney in Ensuring a Secure FutureThe importance of a skilled estate planning attorney in this process cannot be overstated. An attorney who specializes in wills and trusts can guide you through the intricacies of estate law, help you understand the implications of different decisions, and draft comprehensive documents that accurately reflect your intentions.The attorney also plays a crucial role in ensuring that the power of attorney is designed effectively to protect your interests when youre unable to make decisions yourself. As you can see, the role of an attorney for wills and power of attorney near me extends far beyond mere document preparation theyre trusted advisors who can help secure your familys future.At Burr Law, we understand the importance of these decisions and are committed to offering personalized guidance and assistance in crafting robust estate plans. Our experienced attorneys are dedicated to safeguarding your interests and those of your loved ones. Your familys peace of mind is our priority.We hope this article has shed light on the importance of wills and power of attorney and the role of an attorney in ensuring a secure future. For more information on estate planning or to schedule a consultation, please dont hesitate to contact us at 720-500-2076.  

If youve been injured in a car accident, you may try to handle the insurance claim yourself. This makes perfect sense if your injuries are not severe or your medical treatment is minimal. However, what often happens is that the adjuster will ask you to sign a medical release, handing over your medical records to the insurance company. Is this a smart idea? When considering whether to send a medical release to an insurance adjuster following a car accident, there are several key factors to consider. This decision can significantly impact your insurance claim and potential settlement. Heres a breakdown of the considerations:Understanding Medical Release FormsYour medical information is protected by a federal privacy law called HIPAA. The Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act was signed in 1996 and prevents people or agencies from accessing your personal medical information without your permission. The permission slip for medical records is called a release or sometimes just referred to as the HIPAA Authorization. When you sign one of these, you are stating (1) Who can request medical information; (2) What information they can request; and (3) When the permission expires.In a car accident setting, insurance adjusters need your medical information to evaluate your claim. The medical records and bills are how you prove what your injuries were and how severe your injuries were. The adjuster cannot make a settlement offer without the medical records and bills in the file. However, there are limitations that should be put in place to ensure the adjuster doesnt access more than they are entitled to. If you dont want to provide a medical release, you can request your records and bills yourself and send them to the adjuster. This is preferred in order to maintain privacy.Pros of Providing a Medical ReleaseIt can speed up the claim process, as the adjuster gets direct access to necessary medical information. Tracking down your own medical records takes time. Odds are you have already spent a good amount of time going to medical appointments, getting your car fixed, and sitting on hold with the insurance. Spending even more time calling doctors for records can cause you more stress and drag out your claim. If your treatment was simple or you dont have significant health issues outside of your injuries, signing the release might make more sense.Cons of Providing a Medical ReleaseThe biggest downside of signing a release is the loss of privacy. If you dont read them carefully, these forms can sometimes give insurers access to your entire medical history, not just records related to the accident. The adjuster is only entitled to information related to your injuries not your entire history. Often the adjusters will send blank forms for you to sign, which allows them to fill in the blanks for any provider they choose. If you do sign a release, make sure it is very specific set out the particular provider, date range, and expiration date.Theres a risk that the insurance company may use your past medical history to argue that your current injuries are not related to the accident. If you have medical history that might open yourself up to this kind of response from an adjuster, its best to talk with a lawyer about how to handle your claim.Important ConsiderationsBefore signing any release, its advisable to consult with a personal injury attorney. Attorneys have experience in the many excuses insurance adjusters make. We know what kinds of questions to ask and how to anticipate possible problems down the road. Unless your treatment is very simple, talk with an attorney before signing anything from the insurance company.You can provide a release that is limited in scope, focusing only on records related to the accident. This is all the adjuster is entitled to. If they try to convince you otherwise, you should involve an attorney. Theres a good chance the insurance company is trying to take advantage of you if this happens. Know that you are not obligated to immediately provide a release; you can take time to understand its implications. You have 3 years to settle your claim or file a lawsuit. Its ok to take some time to carefully read the documents or talk with an attorney.The Role of Insurance AdjustersRemember, insurance adjusters work for the insurance company and their primary aim is to minimize the companys payout. They can and will use everything they can against you. Thats where a personal injury attorney can help you have someone on your side who understands how the insurance game is played.Alternatives to Full ReleaseInstead of a full release, you might consider providing specific documents that are relevant to the accident. Or you can request the records and bills from the doctor yourself. Since theyre your medical records, you are entitled to them. No doctor or hospital can say that you cant have your medical records.If your case involves psychological injuries and you treated with a therapist, a summary or letter from your doctor regarding the accident-related injuries can be a compromise. You are not legally obligated to provide complete mental health records in order to pursue a claim for psychological injuries.ConclusionDeciding whether to provide a medical release to an insurance adjuster after a car accident is a nuanced decision. Balancing the need for a prompt and fair settlement with the protection of your privacy and rights is key. Always consider consulting with a legal professional to guide you through this process and help you make the best decision for your situation. If you have been injured in a car accident and need help, consultations are free. Call us at 720-500-2076 any time.