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Power of Attorney & Healthcare Directives

June 5, 2025

Essential Legal Protections

Power of Attorney (POA) and Healthcare Directives are among the most important legal documents anyone can have — especially for LGBTQ+ individuals who may not have automatic legal protections through marriage.

Types of Power of Attorney

  • Financial POA: Authorizes someone to manage your finances
  • Healthcare POA: Authorizes someone to make medical decisions
  • Durable POA: Remains effective if you become incapacitated
  • Springing POA: Only activates upon incapacitation

Healthcare Directives

Also known as a living will, this document specifies your wishes for medical treatment if you can't communicate them yourself.

Why This Matters for LGBTQ+ Individuals

Without these documents, hospitals and financial institutions may defer to biological family members rather than your chosen partner or family. Don't leave this to chance.

Steps to Take

  1. Consult an attorney who understands LGBTQ+ legal issues
  2. Choose your agents carefully
  3. Discuss your wishes with your agents
  4. Keep copies accessible and share with healthcare providers

Keep reading

Estate Planning

Estate Planning for Unmarried Partners

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