A person might have certain preferences that he or she wants to be carried out when nearing the end of life. For instance, one individual might not want to be resuscitated if his or her heart stops. Another person might be comfortable with the idea of having a feeding tube inserted but not a ventilator. These are personal issues, and if someone wants to make sure that his or her wishes are met, instructions can be incorporated into a California estate plan.
By executing a legal document known as an advance directive, instructions may be left about end-of-life care and other important health care matters. Each state has its own advance directive requirements. Speaking with someone who is knowledgeable about California laws before signing any documents is important.
Most estate owners designate a Power of Attorney
In addition to writing out instructions about end-of-life care, an estate owner can also grant power of attorney to act on his or her behalf, should the individual no longer able to do so subsequently. In fact, there can be more than one serving in different capacities. The agent’s contact information should be listed in the document, along with the details of the authorization to act on behalf of the person granting the power.
One person might have power of attorney to make medical decisions on a patient’s behalf. Another person might be granted authority to make financial decisions for someone who has become incapacitated. It can be the same person or different people. Sometimes, legal issues arise during the administration of an estate. When this happens, it is a good time to speak with an attorney.