Most people think estate planning only matters after death. But what if something happens while you’re still alive? A sudden illness, accident, or medical emergency could leave you unable to manage your finances or make decisions — and without the right documents, your family may be stuck going to court.
Here’s what happens if you don’t have a power of attorney in Florida.
Without a valid durable power of attorney, no one — not even your spouse — automatically has authority to handle your finances. That means:
Everything can come to a halt.
In many cases, the only solution is a court-ordered guardianship. Guardianship can involve:
And the court — not you — decides who’s in charge. It adds stress during an already difficult time. When families are dealing with a health crisis, the last thing they need is legal red tape. A simple document prepared in advance can avoid months of delay and conflict.
Florida law allows you to appoint someone you trust to act on your behalf through a durable power of attorney. This person can:
It’s one of the most important — and most overlooked — estate planning tools.
Estate planning isn’t just about what happens when you die. It’s also about protecting yourself while you’re alive. Having a power of attorney means your family can focus on your care — not the courtroom.
If you don’t have one yet, now is the time. Book a call today.
