Estate Planning

Estate Planning Services 

Senior Couple Signing a Contract — Corpus Christi, TX — Melody Cooper Law

Wills

A simple Will dictates how you want all of your property to be distributed. It names an Executor (the person in charge of following your wishes) who hires a probate attorney to take the Will to Probate Court. After the Judge validates the Will your Executor then distributes all of your assets (home, cash, possessions) according to the Will.

Powers of Attorney

GENERAL DURABLE POWERS OF ATTORNEY

The General Durable Powers of Attorney are designed to allow the designated person or persons to manage your financial affairs should you become mentally unable to do so. You will notice that the powers you give to your agent are listed on the first page of the document. These powers allow the agent to act on your behalf, but they are limited. Any action taken must better your situation or be an action you would perform normally. Otherwise the agent is liable.

Medical Powers Of Attorney

The Medical Powers of Attorney allow the designated person or persons to consent to medical care on your behalf should you suffer an injury or become mentally disabled. The Medical Powers of Attorney are designed to become effective if, either of you becomes unable to make your own health care decisions, AND that fact is certified in writing by your physician. The agent you appoint may consent, refuse to consent, or withdraw consent to medical treatment. Your agent’s authority begins when your doctor certifies that you lack the capacity to make health care decisions. Unless you state otherwise, your agent has the same authority to make decisions about your health care as you would have had. However, they Do Not have the ability to change your Advance Directive/Living Will or your Do Not Resuscitate orders.

Lady Bird Deed

A Lady Bird Deed is a transfer of property to another with a reservation of a life estate. A person can transfer property and retain ownership in that property until death, at which point it will then transfer to the other.

Designation Of Guardianship

Designation of Guardian for Minor Children allows you to nominate a person(s) to act as the guardian of your minor child. The designation can be effective either during life or after death. For example, you may become incapacitated and unable to care for your minor children. 

Advance Directive Or Living Will

The Advance Directive, also known as a Living Will, allows you to make decisions about whether or not you would like to receive life-sustaining treatment in two specific scenarios. Make sure you discuss your choices with your family members so they understand your wishes. 

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