Last Will and Testament:

This document is used upon your death. It provides details of how your estate should be disbursed, and who is responsible for handling your affairs. You need to think about the following details:

1)      Who to name in the Executor role: The person appointed by you to carry out the terms of the will.

2)      Who to name as Guardian(s) for Minor Children: The person appointed to take care of your minor children should you pass away before your children reach 18 years of age.

3)      How you want your estate distributed.

Power of Attorney:

This document is used while you are still living. It is used in situations when you need someone else to act on your behalf, typically for matters of a financial nature. (Health and medical decisions are not granted in this document, the Advanced Medical Directive covers those matters.)

1)      Who to name in Attorney-in-fact role: The person named to act on your behalf.

Advanced Medical Directive:

This document includes a "Living Will" and "Health Care Power of Attorney". It is used while you are still living and relates to your medical care. 

• "Living Will" lets your doctors and family know what your wishes are regarding life prolonging procedures if you are ever in a terminal condition, and your death is imminent; or you are in a persistent vegetative state, and there is no chance of recovery. This language is optional.

• "Health Care Power of Attorney" Grants your agents authority to make medical decisions, such as treatment, placement, etc. when you are unable to speak for yourself.

• ­Direction for what you would like to happen to your remains when you pass away.

1)      Who to name in Health Care Agent role: This individual acts only when you are no longer able to make your own medical decisions.