Wills and Trusts
Healthcare documents are a vital component of a comprehensive estate plan, ensuring that your medical and financial wishes are honored when you cannot make decisions for yourself. At Rodriguez & Lichtmacher, LLP, we understand the significance of these documents. We are dedicated to helping you establish clear and legally sound instructions for your health care and financial affairs. Our experienced San Antonio estate planning attorneys will guide you through the process, ensuring that your estate plan fully reflects your desires and provides peace of mind for you and your loved ones.
Medical and Financial Powers of Attorney
A medical power of attorney allows you to designate someone you trust to make health care decisions on your behalf if you become incapacitated. This person, known as your agent, will have the authority to make decisions about your medical treatment, including consent or refusal of procedures, based on your preferences and best interests.
On the other hand, a financial power of attorney grants an agent the authority to manage your financial affairs if you cannot do so. This includes handling bills, managing investments, and making other financial decisions.
Both types of powers of attorney are crucial for ensuring that your wishes are respected and that your affairs are managed by someone you trust, thereby preventing confusion and legal complications during difficult times.
Advanced Health Care Directives (Living Wills)
Advanced health care directives, also known as living wills, provide explicit instructions about your medical care preferences if you cannot communicate them yourself. These directives can include your wishes regarding life-sustaining treatments, such as resuscitation, mechanical ventilation, and feeding tubes. Having a living will in place, you can ensure that your healthcare providers and loved ones know your preferences, reducing the emotional burden on your family during critical moments. This document helps to avoid potential conflicts and ensures that your medical care aligns with your values and desires, providing clarity and direction for your medical team.
HIPAA Authorizations
HIPAA (Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act) authorizations are essential for allowing your designated agents and loved ones to access your medical information. Without HIPAA authorization, your healthcare providers may be unable to share critical information about your medical condition and treatment with those you trust. This document ensures that your agents have the information required to make informed decisions about your care. By including a HIPAA authorization in your estate plan, you facilitate communication between your health care providers and your designated agents, ensuring that your medical care is managed effectively and in accordance with your wishes.
At Rodriguez & Lichtmacher, LLP, we are committed to helping you create a comprehensive estate plan that includes essential healthcare documents tailored to your needs and wishes. Our experienced estate planning attorneys in San Antonio are here to provide guidance and ensure that your health care and financial affairs are managed according to your preferences.
Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn how we can assist you in preparing medical and financial powers of attorney, advanced health care directives, and HIPAA authorizations. Let us help you secure your future and provide peace of mind for you and your loved ones.