I often tell my clients to discuss the big life cycle items when everyone is happy and
healthy. Estate Planning documents fall under this same category. It is important to have
everything in place and up to date. Let me list some basic Estate Planning items everyone
needs:
A basic Will: a straightforward legal document that specifies how you want your property
and assets distributed after you die, names an executor to manage the process, and can
appoint guardians for minor children.
A Living Will: a legal document that outlines your preferences for end-of-life medical care,
such as life support, artificial nutrition, and resuscitation (DNR), if you become
incapacitated
Durable Power of Attorney: a legal document that designates a trusted agent to manage
your financial and legal affairs if you become mentally or physically incapacitated. Unlike a
standard POA, it remains in effect during incapacity.
Florida Designation of Health Care Surrogate: a legal document (an advance directive) that
allows you to appoint a trusted person—the “surrogate “to make medical decisions for you
if you become incapacitated or are otherwise unable to make informed decisions for
yourself.
I know this is not very romantic – have the candy and champagne after you are finish
signing everything.
Disclosures: