Power of Attorney (POA)
A Power of Attorney is a legal document you sign while competent, granting someone authority to handle your financial or legal affairs. It can take effect immediately or only if you become incapacitated.
Residents across Eastern Massachusetts, from Boston to Brookline, often use durable POAs to ensure continuity in bill-paying, banking, and property management.
Guardianship
Guardianship is a court process that happens after someone becomes incapacitated and has no valid POA. The court—whether in Hampden or the Pioneer Valley—appoints a guardian to make decisions.
This process can be expensive, public, and time-consuming. It may also create family disputes if relatives disagree about who should serve.
Why POA Is Preferable
By signing a durable Power of Attorney, individuals in Natick, Southwick, or Vermont choose their own decision-maker, avoiding court involvement entirely.
Health-Care Decisions
A separate Health Care Proxy names someone to make medical decisions if you can’t. Combining financial and medical powers provides full protection.
Conclusion: POA And Guardianship
Establishing Powers of Attorney while you’re healthy prevents the need for guardianship later—a simple step that brings lasting peace of mind.
Avoid court involvement and uncertainty. Fill out our contact form at https://www.oconnelllawgroup.com/contact/ to get help setting up your Power of Attorney.