Incapacity Planning

None of us like to imagine being unable to make our own decisions. Illness, injury, or age can make it hard to manage finances or direct medical care. A simple plan reduces confusion during a crisis. It lets someone you trust step in and follow your wishes. Without those documents, families in Texas or North Carolina may need to seek a court-appointed guardianship, which takes time and money at a moment when they already have enough to carry.

A thoughtful plan can name the person who will make financial and medical decisions, spell out your health care preferences, and reduce the likelihood of court involvement. It also lowers stress for the people who love you.

Essential Incapacity Planning Documents

At Rania Combs Law, I help clients put a calm, clear plan in place. Most plans include some or all of the following.

Durable Power of Attorney

This document allows a trusted person to handle money matters if you cannot. They can pay bills, manage accounts and investments, and take care of day-to-day business. In Texas and North Carolina, a durable power of attorney ends at death. After that, the executor named in your Will takes over estate matters.

Some financial powers of attorney are effective as soon as you sign. Others begin only if you are declared incapacitated. Immediate authority can reduce delays in an emergency. A “springing” power can feel more comfortable, but usually requires proof before banks or other institutions will honor it. We can discuss which approach fits you best and how to keep things as smooth as possible.

Healthcare Power of Attorney

A healthcare power of attorney authorizes someone to make health care decisions when you are unable to speak for yourself. With it, doctors and hospitals know who is authorized to act. Without it, families can face delays and added hurdles at the worst possible time.

Advance Directive (Living Will)

An advance directive, also known as a living will, records your wishes about life-sustaining treatment if you cannot communicate. Clear guidance helps your loved ones and medical team honor your preferences with confidence and compassion.

HIPAA Authorization

A HIPAA authorization allows allows the people you name to receive medical information and speak with your providers. Even close family can be turned away without written permission.

Declaration of Guardian in Advance of Need

If a court must appoint a guardian for you in the future, this document lets you say who you would want—and who you would NOT want—to serve in that role. It can prevent someone you do not trust from being appointed as your legal guardian.

Ready to Plan Ahead?

Incapacity can happen without warning. A few well-chosen documents ensure your affairs are handled according to your values and instructions. I work with clients across Texas and North Carolina to create plans that are clear, practical, and easy to use when needed.

If you would like help getting this in place, schedule an appointment with Rania Combs Law. You can also review the articles below to learn more about powers of attorney, living wills, and guardianship so you feel prepared for the road ahead.