Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Powers of Attorney
What is an Advance Health Care Directive? Why do I need one if my family already knows my wishes?
An Advance Health Care Directive (AHCD), previously known as a Durable Power of Attorney For Health Care, is a written document by which you first, appoint one or more attorney(s)-in-fact to make health care decisions for you if you become unable to do so, and second, by which you state your instructions and wishes concerning health care as well as the disposition of your remains on death. Many clients do not wish heroic efforts used to keep them alive if there is no hope of recovery; this is the document in which you state those wishes. Previously, such wishes were incorporated in a document called a living will.
Remember, if you do not put your wishes in writing, your wishes may not be carried out.
We can prepare our version of an AHCD for you when you complete and return our questionnaire. Alternatively, you can use the form prepared by the California Medical Association (see our links on the Resources page) which is shorter and simpler than our form. Kaiser uses an enhanced version of the CMA form which it makes available to its members.
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FAQ Categories
- Living Trust
- Living Trusts and Probate
- Funding a Living Trust
- Bank Accounts
- Powers of Attorney
- Conservatorships and Guardianships
- Alternatives to Conservatorships and Guardianships
- Medicare and Medi-Cal (Medicaid)
- Probate
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- Disqualified Beneficiaries
- Joint tenancy, Community Property, Domestic Partnerships