Powers of Attorney

Practice Areas

Powers of Attorney

For Healthcare:

Current law prohibits medical personnel and facilities from disclosing patient information to any person who is not legally authorized to receive such information. The medical community also cannot legally follow a directive from anyone other than the patient unless the proper documentation is presented.

A Medical Power of Attorney grants someone you trust (known as your healthcare agent or proxy) the authority to make healthcare decisions on your behalf if you become unable to do so due to incapacity or inability to communicate your wishes. This ensures that your medical preferences are honored and that someone you choose is empowered to advocate for your best interests.

Sell Griffin McLain is experienced in preparing the directive to physician (“living will”), Healthcare Power of Attorney, and other legal documents to lawfully authorize your designated representative to deal with the medical community on your behalf if necessary.

 

For Personal Business:

A Power of Attorney allows you to designate someone you trust (known as your agent or attorney-in-fact) to handle your financial, legal, and business affairs if you become incapacitated or unable to make decisions on your own. It ensures that someone is authorized to act on your behalf and manage your affairs according to your wishes.

In addition, having a Power of Attorney in place can provide convenience and efficiency in managing your financial matters. If you travel frequently, have a busy schedule, or face temporary incapacitation, your agent can handle important tasks, such as paying bills, managing bank accounts, or making legal decisions on your behalf, saving you time and effort.

The following are some of the personal business matters/transactions that can be managed by a properly and legally designated agent:

  • Real property
  • Tangible personal property
  • Stocks and bonds
  • Commodities and options
  • Banking and other financial institutions
  • Business operations
  • Insurance and annuity
  • Estate and trust
  • Claims and litigation
  • Personal and family maintenance
  • Benefits from social security, Medicare, Medicaid, or other governmental programs including civil or military service
  • Retirement plan
  • Taxes