I am sure most of you have heard about the #freebritney movement, and how it has officially come to a close but if you have not, it’s definitely worth a read to understand how important powers of attorney are: https://www.npr.org/2021/11/12/1054860726/britney-spears-conservatorship-ended.
How Powers of Attorney Can Protect Guardianships/Conservatorships
In Colorado, if you do not have Powers of Attorney in place, and you become incapacitated for any reason, you go through a guardianship/conservatorship hearing. This is a one-day hearing where a judge will appoint someone to be your Financial and Medical Power of Attorney. More often than not, a professional is appointed. Professionals are extremely expensive and more importantly, they don’t know your wishes!
To make things worse, once a doctor finds you have full capacity, you have to go back to the court and ask permission to make your own decisions again; and like Britney, they do not always say “yes.”
Protect Your Choices About Your Future
When you create your Power of Attorney, you get to choose people you trust to be in those positions, all while avoiding an expensive court hearing.
Schedule your free initial consultation and discuss how Powers of Attorney play a part in your Estate Plan with one of our experienced attorneys today!