December 14, 2015

Any person should have these three end-of-life documents in his or her arsenal. While many estate planning documents consider your options after you pass away, these help to give family members the authority to step in and help if you are incapacitated but still alive.

Make sure you have considered these documents and who you want to serve in these roles:

• Information release form: This gives doctors and medical professionals permission to share medical records details with designated representatives.
• Durable power of attorney: Assists your agents with your legal and financial affairs management.
• Advance directives: You should never assume that your family members know or are willing to carry out your medical decisions in the event tha tyou become unable to. A healthcare durable power of attorney names this representative, and a living will outlines the medical treatment you want or do not want at the end of your life.

Without delegating control in this manner, you can place your family in a difficult situation trying to determine what you would want. This can even lead to squabbles between family members who disagree. Where possible, having these documents in an easily-accessed place allows for your wishes to be carried out with as few concerns as possible. Make sure you have discussed this with your New Jersey estate planning attorney.