When people think of estate planning, they often think only about wills or trusts. But one of the most powerful and practical tools you can include in your plan is a Power of Attorney (POA). At Haugen Law Firm, P.C., we regularly help families in Denton, Collin, Dallas, and Tarrant Counties establish Powers of Attorney as part of a complete plan to protect their loved ones—and themselves.
Here’s what you need to know.
What Is a Power of Attorney?
A Power of Attorney is a legal document that allows you to appoint someone—called your agent—to act on your behalf. This can include making financial, legal, or medical decisions if you become ill, incapacitated, or simply need help managing your affairs.
There are different types of POAs, each serving a unique role:
- Statutory Durable Power of Attorney – for financial and legal decisions; generally takes effect once you lack capacity
- Medical Power of Attorney – for making healthcare decisions when you’re unable to
- Limited or Specific POA – grants narrow authority for a specific time or task (e.g., selling property)
Why You Need a Power of Attorney
Without a POA, your family may face significant challenges if you're ever unable to make decisions for yourself. They may need to go to court to gain guardianship—an expensive and time-consuming process.
Having a POA in place can:
- Ensure bills and assets are managed without disruption
- Allow someone you trust to speak with doctors and make care decisions
- Prevent court intervention during a crisis
- Provide peace of mind for you and your loved ones
Choosing the Right Person
The person you name as your agent should be trustworthy, responsible, and capable of acting in your best interest. You can name backup agents in case your first choice is unavailable.
It’s also important to clearly outline the powers you’re granting—and any limits—so your agent knows exactly what they can and can’t do.
Let Haugen Law Firm Help You Plan Ahead
At Haugen Law Firm, we believe that a strong estate plan does more than distribute assets—it protects your life, your values, and your family. Powers of Attorney are a vital part of that protection. Whether you’re creating a plan from scratch or updating an old one, we’re here to help you make confident, informed decisions.
We’re proud to serve families and individuals across Denton, Collin, Cooke, Dallas, and Tarrant Counties with trusted legal guidance in family law, criminal defense, and estate planning. If you have questions about your legal rights or need personalized support, our dedicated team is here to help. Contact us today!