Mobile, AL Power Of Attorney Lawyers

Have you ever wondered who would make important decisions for you if a tragic event occurred, and you were no longer able to speak for yourself? While you may have someone in mind that you trust, the state’s laws may not allow for that person to have any say in your life or affairs. If you wish to make it explicitly known who can make financial, medical, and other decisions on your behalf, then you need to grant them power of attorney. 

While this may seem like a simple task if you punch it into the internet search bar, many of these online forms are generic and not compliant with Alabama laws. It is in your best interest to seek a knowledgeable attorney who can clearly explain your options, how POA works, and ensure that it is valid in the eyes of the state government. At The Ladd Firm, we are thorough in walking you through the process of granting and establishing POA, giving you peace of mind that you are protected in the event of an unforeseen tragedy. Call our Mobile power of attorney lawyers today to learn more about our services and how you can get a free phone consultation!

What Is Power Of Attorney?

Power of attorney allows you to choose an individual – called an “agent” –  who can legally act in your place. POA is very flexible and allows you to establish the kind of tasks your agent can complete, when, and for how long. While POA is generally used in the event of a physical or mental incapacitation that prevents you from carrying out legal obligations, you can also grant an agent the authority to complete simple tasks like writing checks, or more complex tasks like selling your car. 

There are many different types of POA that serve various purposes. Our Mobile power of attorney lawyers can suggest the most beneficial route for you based on the goals you are looking to accomplish. For example, you could grant your agent medical POA (to make decisions regarding your healthcare) or financial POA (to handle your money, property, or finances). If your POA is “durable”, then it continues to be in effect even if you become incapacitated. Finally, you can always revoke a power of attorney and end your agent’s ability to make decisions on your behalf when it is no longer needed. 

Who Can Be Named An Agent?

Your lawyer can certainly assist you in naming the right agent. Generally speaking, any competent adult can be granted POA. However, you should take careful consideration of practical attributes like the individual’s trustworthiness, financial sense, and physical location relative to you. You are also able to name a “successor” agent as a backup to your first choice. 

Why Do I Need A Lawyer To Help Me?

As already stated, there are many generic documents on the internet that claim to allow you to establish POA without the help of a lawyer. However, there are certain steps that must be taken to ensure that the document is legally valid in the courts of Alabama. With no POA in effect, anyone who wants to act in your stead must seek a conservatorship or guardianship through a judge, which may take a while to obtain. Our Mobile power of attorney lawyers can add an extra layer of protection to your POA by making sure a notary public is present for the signing, filing a copy with the land records office, sending copies to your financial institutions, and more. 

Trust Our Experienced Mobile Power Of Attorney Lawyers To Simplify The Process And Keep You Protected!

To sum up, power of attorney is a beneficial tool for people of all ages. It may be used in the event of an emergency, or simply as a way of getting help with your finances or other legal matters. The lead attorneys at The Ladd Firm, Banks Ladd and Mary Carol Ladd, have over 50 years of combined legal experience and are passionate about helping families plan for the future. Call today to learn how you can get a free phone consultation and learn more about power of attorney and other estate planning tools!