It’s a question we get quite often from both married couples and unmarried couples, and it’s a great question to be asking. By asking whether or not you need a power of attorney in Arizona means you’re thinking ahead, you’re planning for the unknown, and you care enough about your family and friends to legally and emotionally clear up some confusion that could possibly occur in the event of an emergency.

Everyone needs a power of attorney, whether you are married or single. While many people consider power of attorney paperwork when they’re about to head into surgery, or perhaps have been diagnosed with an illness, or maybe are traveling overseas with the military. However, these are honestly the worst times to work up power of attorney documents in Arizona. When you’re emotionally stressed from whatever endeavor you’re embarking upon, you are not in the right mindset to make these kinds of decisions.

Power of attorney paperwork should be drawn up well before any of these issues become reality. In my 25 years of experience with AZ special needs trusts, living wills and more, I’ve found that the worst time to take care of these emotional legalities is when you’re in the thick of it. The best time is well before you find yourself in these situations.

I Need One Even if I’m Married?

Yes, everyone needs a power of attorney, even if you’re married. While your husband or wife does have certain legal entitlements, he or she does not have full access to those items which you have purchased together, such as your home, cards, etc. For example, imagine a scenario where you have been in a traffic car accident. Your medical bills are piling up, and your wife needs to sell the home to get out of the mounting debt. You are in a coma, and cannot make decisions or sign paperwork, and your house, bills, and future is in limbo because you do not have the right power of attorney paperwork.

What Does a Power of Attorney Do?

Basically, a power of attorney in Arizona will authorize someone of your choosing, whether it’s your husband, wife, partner, sister, brother, etc, to make financial and/or medical decisions on your behalf while you are still alive.

What Kind of Power of Attorney do I Need?

Power of attorney regulates all financial issues, while an Arizona living will, also known as a health care directorive, will regulate all medical decisions. In my experience, it is best to have an Arizona living trust, living will, and power of attorney paperwork drawn up together.

Need Help?

If you are not sure as to what legal document you currently have contact one of our professionals to help you with your estate planning. They will make sure you have all of your grounds covered and have the right legal documents that best suite your wants and needs.

Contact us today by clicking here!