Common Glossary of Terms
Last Will and Testament
Document used after your lifetime, wherein you designate who you want to be your personal representative and how you wish your property to pass.
Living Will
Document used to inform your doctor if you do or do not want nutrition and hydration if you are diagnosed to be in a terminal or in a permanent unconscious condition. It also helps you avoid extraordinary life sustaining measures.
Durable Power of Attorney for Health Care
Document used during your lifetime to give a person you designate the authority either immediately or upon your incompetence to handle your health care needs.
Durable Power of Attorney for Health Care (credit card size)
NEW! You may obtain a condensed power of attorney containing language involving health care decisions. This is used when there is an emergency or when your power of attorney is not readily accessible.
Durable Power of Attorney for Finances
Document used during your lifetime to give a person you designate the authority either immediately or upon your incompetence to handle your financial needs.
Community Property Agreement
Document used to transfer all property whether real or personal to the surviving spouse.
Codicil
Document used to make a change to your will without having to execute another will.
Living Trust
Document used during your lifetime to hold property in trust for your benefit during your lifetime. The property in trust passes to your successor and eventually your beneficiaries without probate.