Illinois Powers of Attorney

Schaumburg Estate Planning Law Firm

Illinois recognizes two types of powers of attorney – a health care power of attorney and a property power of attorney.  Both types of power of attorney are considered “durable” powers of attorney, unless otherwise specified in the document, which means that the document will be valid even after the principal is incapacitated.

At Kelley Kelley & Kelley, our knowledgeable Illinois estate planning attorneys have considerable experience preparing both types of powers of attorney, as well as wills and trusts.  Contact our office at (847) 895-9151 to schedule a consultation with one of our trusted Illinois estate planning attorneys to learn more about Illinois powers of attorney.

Power of Attorney for Health Care

An Illinois power of attorney for health care allows a person to delegate to another person the responsibility for making personal decisions related to health care and medical treatment, including the right to decline medical treatment.  Decisions made pursuant to a health care power of attorney will override any conflicting obligations of doctors or health care providers. Many individuals do not want to think about facing the possibility of making medical decisions on a loved one's behalf. However, as part of our comprehensive estate planning, we can prepare all of the necessary documents at a time when every party is able to make clear and thoughtful decisions so that if the time comes when you need to make medical decisions on behalf of your loved one, you can rest assured that the documents have been prepared ahead of time which allows you to focus solely on your loved one's care.

Power of Attorney for Property

A power of attorney for property allows a person (the principal) to delegate to another person the power to make decisions regarding assets, finances, bank accounts, real estate and other property.  The delegated person, or agent, does not need to be an attorney, but he or she is expected to carry out decisions according to the principal’s wishes.

A power of attorney for property allows you to delegate someone to make decisions regarding your property if you are unable to make those decisions yourself.  A power of attorney for property ensures that decisions with respect to your assets and property will be carried out according to your wishes, rather than determined by the court, which is a costly and time consuming endeavor that often leaves parties wishing that they had documented their intentions at a prior time.  A power of attorney for property can grant limited or broad decision-making authority depending on the principal’s needs.

Trusted Legal Advice and Counsel

A power of attorney can be an incredibly useful legal document, but it should not be entered into lightly or executed without the necessary legal advice and counsel.  At Kelley Kelley & Kelley, our experienced Illinois estate planning attorneys guide clients through the entire estate planning process, including preparation of the appropriate legal documents such as wills, trusts and powers of attorney. The attorneys at Kelley, Kelley & Kelley will guide you through your estate planning process with care and understanding to ensure that your interests are protected and your wishes are followed.

Contact our office at (847) 895-9151 to schedule a consultation with one of our trusted Illinois estate planning attorneys to learn more about the various legal documents to be executed as part of a comprehensive estate plan, including trusts, wills and powers of attorney.