We often take our ability to make our own decisions for granted. We may not want to think about what would happen if we could no longer make our own decisions, but planning for it gives us back a measure of control. It is important for individuals to understand what is available and what can and can't be done. Together, the documents discussed below can provide a good measure of security that your affairs are in order, regardless of what the future holds.
There are certain health care decisions that you can make in advance or authorize someone to make for you. You can do this in case there is a time when you cannot make or cannot communicate your own health care decisions.
You can create a document that will allow someone else to act for you in a number of different situations.
A Will is a document that you can use to leave all things that you own to whoever you choose. There are some very specific exceptions to this that can override your decisions about who should get what. A Will is also an opportunity to appoint someone to be in charge of distributing your estate.
PLEA can provide you with information to help you understand many legal matters you, a family member or friend may be facing.