Caring, Knowledgeable Legal Guidance Based on Your Personal Goals
Although many people still primarily think of estate planning in terms of organizing their affairs prior to death, preparation for incapacity or a terminal condition is also very important. Regardless of an individual estate planning client's age and assets, we recommend legal documentation of his or her wishes regarding who will have decision-making power and how medical treatment should be handled in an end-of-life situation.
The legal documents relevant to these situations in Illinois include:
- A durable power of attorney for health care to establish who will make medical decisions if the grantor of this power becomes unable to make them for himself or herself
- A living will to express wishes as to whether "death-delaying" medical procedures should be applied or withheld should the patient suffer from an incurable and irreversible injury, disease or illness as determined by an attending physician
Unlike a durable power of attorney for property, which may not be necessary for everyone, we believe everyone engaged in estate planning should seriously consider having these documents clearly and carefully drafted. Doing so can prevent disagreement and additional heartache among loved ones if you suffer a loss of capacity or end-of-life illness.
Addressing Key Issues and Helping You Make Sound Decisions
At Molohon, Sandquist & James, LLP, our attorneys engage on a personal, interactive level with each client and ask key questions not everyone considers. Our ultimate goals are to reflect your wishes as precisely as possible and make certain the person you name to make decisions for you has clear direction and authority.
Our attorneys will be pleased to counsel you on issues including whether to name a relative who may live far away or a person you trust locally, for example.
Cook County Lawyers for Durable Powers of Attorney and All Other Estate Planning Needs: 888-674-1211
We encourage you to call our Palatine offices to discuss health care power of attorney, advance directive and living will issues and the documents suited to your needs and goals. Should you need comprehensive development or review of your estate plans, we will be certain to cover these matters as part of our thorough interactive process.
