Texas Estate Planning Documents

Last month, I talked about the need to get a will done if you haven’t already. I also wanted to take the new year to mention other estate documents that can be helpful along with a will.

Physician’s Directive: this is a document that addresses end of life decisions. A typical directive will set forth what medical steps you want taken if you were to have an incurable condition. It also address what medical steps you want taken if you have an irreversible condition.

Power of Attorney: this document can be used to give another person the legal authority to make certain decisions for you. It is typically used in situations where a person is alive but for whatever reason cannot make those decisions for themselves (whether due to medical reasons or voluntary reasons).
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In conjunction with a will, both of these documents work to make sure your wishes are carried out even if you’re physically unable to do so yourself. These documents can also remove the decision making burden from family or friends as to what those wishes might be. 

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