Pennsylvania Lawyers Assist with Living Wills and Other Advance Directives

Attorneys help clients in the West Chester area transfer decision-making authority in case of incapacity

Life is unpredictable, but it is possible to prepare for the unexpected. Creating a living will and other advance directive documents can ensure that if you ever become unable to make healthcare or financial decisions for yourself, your decision-making powers are given to someone you trust to act in your best interest. These crucial documents can save your family heartache during a crisis, and they can be as broad or specific as you wish. Wetzel Gagliardi Fetter & Lavin LLC will advise you on relevant state laws and the various contingencies you can address in your written instructions. We have extensive experience assisting clients in the West Chester area and throughout Pennsylvania to make their wishes clear and enforceable.

Pennsylvania attorneys empower people to manage medical treatment decisions

Advance directives are legal documents that allow you to clearly articulate your preferences regarding lifesaving medical interventions. They can set forth instructions on various matters and come in several forms. Wetzel Gagliardi Fetter & Lavin LLC will take the time to discuss your options. An advance directive may include the following:

• Living will — A living will states what kind of medical treatment you should receive if you are too sick or injured to express your wishes or give informed consent.
• Do-not-resuscitate order — A DNR instructs medical personnel to refrain from performing CPR, electric shocks and other lifesaving measures if a person’s breathing or heartbeat stops. A DNR can prevent someone from being sustained on life support if they are brain-dead.
• Durable power of attorney — This form of power of attorney, which is specific to healthcare decisions, is a common type of advance directive. In the event that you are not able to make decisions about your medical treatment, a durable power of attorney authorizes someone you trust to make decisions on your behalf.

At Wetzel Gagliardi Fetter & Lavin LLC, our attorneys formulate clear documents to prevent misinterpretation or argument. This way, your family can avoid expensive litigation and move forward.

Counselors create personalized power of attorney documents

Our skilled attorneys help you prepare for contingencies based on specific circumstances that may arise.

Having someone to handle your personal finances in the event of your incapacitation can help ensure that your property is cared for and your bills are covered. You can grant someone power of attorney to manage the financial assets you select, including your bank accounts, stocks, bonds and royalties. Older adults who are forgetful or susceptible to being taken advantage of can also benefit from a loved one overseeing their bank accounts.

It is prudent for small business owners and individuals involved in litigation to select a trusted representative to act in their place. In case you have to step away from day-to-day management of your business or legal matters, the person with power of attorney can continue to look out for your best interests. At Wetzel Gagliardi Fetter & Lavin LLC, we can work closely with you and your representative to evaluate each area where power of attorney is advisable.

Contact Pennsylvania attorneys for help creating an advance directive

Illness, injury or infirmity can leave anyone vulnerable to financial losses and can result in loved ones dealing with confusing legal matters. A carefully drafted living will or power of attorney can give you and your loved ones throughout Pennsylvania greater peace of mind. Call Wetzel Gagliardi Fetter & Lavin LLC at 484-887-0779 or contact us online to schedule a consultation at our West Chester office.