Advance Directives
When people think of estate planning, they typically think about the distribution of their property, avoiding probate and avoiding estate taxes. While these goals are all essential components of a carefully executed estate plan, there is another critical aspect of estate planning that remains — medical planning.
By now, you have probably heard stories of family conflicts that arise when a loved one is on life-support and family members cannot agree on what is best for their loved one. Should life-support be cut off or should a family member be required to live on life support for the next several months — or years? This is exactly the type of conflict that can be avoided through the use of an advance directive.
Making Your Wishes Clear
An advance directive is a document that clearly states your wishes in the event that you become incapacitated due to a sudden accident or illness. Given the large number of individuals who contract Alzheimer's disease or dementia later in life, an advance directive is a necessity for everyone. Moreover, since a car accident or other unexpected event can happen suddenly, it is never too soon to obtain an advance directive.
Contact Werst & Associates
If you need to speak with an estate planning lawyer about an advance directive, will, trust, power of attorney or other estate planning matter, contact Werst & Associates in West Linn, Oregon.
For your convenience, we offer home visits. Affordable consultations are available. To contact an attorney at our West Linn office, call 503-342-2389, or contact us by e-mail.
