Life is full of uncertainty. A good way to plan for the unexpected is by preparing an estate plan before an unforeseen event occurs.  Estate plans can range from simple to complex, addressing both modest and large estates.

Key documents of an estate plan often include the following:

• Financial Durable Power of Attorney
• Designation of Patient Advocate
• Last Will and Testament
• Revocable Living Trust

A Financial Durable Power of Attorney appoints a person to act on your behalf to handle matters such as banking, management of other assets, and government benefits. This kind of power of attorney gives authority only during your lifetime.

A Designation of Patient Advocate allows you to name a person to make medical decisions on your behalf should you become incapacitated and if you are unable to direct your own medical care. Your Patient Advocate can carry out your intent about applying or withholding medication or medical treatment. The Patient Advocate can also implement your end-of-life decisions.

A written estate plan that includes a Last Will and Testament alone or a Will combined with a Revocable Living Trust offers you the opportunity to name the people and charities who should receive your estate assets at the time of your death. 

While it is tempting to prepare these documents yourself without the assistance of an attorney, be cautious.  Each estate planning document is unique and should be developed by considering the needs and goals of each individual.

This information is not intended to provide legal advice.


Howard H. Collens is an attorney with the law firm of Galloway and Collens, PLLC.  He can be reached at (248) 545-2500 or at www.GallowayCollens.com. He is a member of the Senior & Caregiver Resource Network (www.sacrn.org).