Experienced DuPage County Powers of Attorney & Living Wills Lawyer

Planning for your own potential incapacitation is an important part of the estate planning process. If there comes a time when you are unable to make your own medical and/or financial decisions, it is important to have the proper legal documents in place to ensure your wishes are properly expressed and respected. At the Law Office of Cynthia Hayes Hutchins, P.C., we assist clients in making all the necessary arrangements to plan for their potential incapacitation. Using Living Wills and Powers of Attorney, we can help ensure peace of mind for yourself and your family no matter what the future brings.

Understanding Powers of Attorney

Powers of Attorney designate a person you trust, your “Agent,” to make decisions on your behalf. For estate planning purposes, there are two types of Powers of Attorney:

• Powers of Attorney for Health care – This document allows you to designate whom you would like to make health care decisions for you if you are incapacitated.
• Powers of Attorney for Property – This document allows you to designate who you would like to make financial decisions, including those involving bank accounts, investments, bills, real estate transactions and other financial matters, if you are incapacitated.

It is important to choose someone that you trust to act as your Agent, as this person will have complete control over important decisions. Attorney Cindy Hutchins helps clients carefully consider how best to structure such Powers of Attorney.

Understanding Living Wills

Living Wills are often used in conjunction with Powers of Attorney for Healthcare. These legal documents specifically address your wishes for what types of health care interventions you would like to receive on your deathbed. Should you become incapacitated by illness or an accident, a Living Will provides instructions for what life saving measures you want and do not want. Having a Living Will in place can save your loved ones added trauma during an emotionally difficult time.

If you are interested in crafting a Power of Attorney and/or Living Will as part of your estate plan, contact us to schedule a meeting. From our Wheaton office, we help individuals and families throughout DuPage County including Glen Ellyn, Naperville, Warrenville, Winfield, Lombard, Carol Stream, Glendale Heights, Bloomingdale and Lisle.