Wills & Estate Planning

A will is a legal document in which you identify which people or institutions receive money and property from your estate after your death. It also serves to appoint guardianship of children or adults who are your legal responsibility, as well as an executor to manage your estate after you die. However, choosing the wrong kind of will, not having enough witnesses, leaving out key language required by Georgia, or inadequate particulars can mean the state, not you, will decide what happens to your estate. For the relatively low cost of having a will prepared by a lawyer, the safety and protection it provides are worth the investment of time and money.

Financial Power of Attorney

What is a financial power of attorney? It allows you to name one or more persons to help you handle your financial affairs. Depending on your individual circumstances, you can give this person or person’s complete or limited power to act on your behalf. This document does not give someone the power to make medical decisions or personal decisions for you.

Advanced Directive for Health Care

What is an advance directive for health care?

An advance directive for health care (ADHC) is a legal document in which you (1) appoint your health care agent, and/or (2) direct the withholding or withdrawal of life-sustaining procedures and/or the provision of nourishment or hydration if you are in a terminal condition or a state of permanent unconsciousness. (Since 2007, the ADHC has replaced the legal documents called durable power of attorney for health care and living will in Georgia.)