Powers of Attorney & Medical Directives
Protecting Your Voice, Your Wishes, and Your Loved Ones—If You Can’t Speak for
Yourself
One of the most important parts of any estate plan is planning for incapacity. If you become ill or injured and are unable to make decisions, the right documents ensure that trusted people—not a court—can step in and help.
At Snake River Law, we help individuals and families create powers of attorney and medical directives that provide clarity, authority, and peace of mind during life’s most uncertain moments.
Why Incapacity Planning Matters
Incapacity can happen at any age—through illness, injury, or sudden medical events. Without proper planning:
- Loved ones may be forced to seek court-appointed guardianship or conservatorship
- Financial accounts may be frozen or inaccessible
- Medical decisions may be delayed or made by people you would not choose
- Family conflict and stress often increase
Proper documents keep decision-making private, efficient, and aligned with your wishes.
Financial Power of Attorney
A Financial Power of Attorney allows you to appoint a trusted person (your “agent”) to manage financial and legal matters on your behalf if you cannot do so yourself.
This authority can include:
- Paying bills and managing bank accounts
- Handling real estate and investments
- Managing business interests
- Filing taxes and dealing with government agencies
Powers of attorney can be tailored to your needs and may take effect immediately or only upon incapacity.
Medical Power of Attorney
A Medical Power of Attorney allows you to appoint someone to make healthcare decisions for you if you are unable to communicate your wishes.
Your agent can:
- Speak with doctors and healthcare providers
- Consent to or refuse medical treatment
- Access medical records
- Make care decisions consistent with your values
This document ensures your healthcare choices are respected—even in emergencies.
Living Wills & Advance Directives
A Living Will (also known as an advance directive) allows you to express your wishes regarding life-sustaining treatment in end-of-life situations.
This may include guidance about:
- Artificial nutrition and hydration
- Life support and resuscitation
- Comfort care and pain management
These documents help remove uncertainty and emotional burden from loved ones during difficult decisions.
HIPAA Authorizations
A HIPAA Authorization allows designated individuals to access your medical information. Without it, loved ones may be unable to receive updates or speak with healthcare providers—even in emergencies.
HIPAA authorizations work alongside medical powers of attorney to ensure smooth communication
How These Documents Work Together
Powers of attorney and medical directives are most effective when they are coordinated with your overall estate plan.
We ensure these documents:
- Work together seamlessly
- Relign with your trust or will
- Are clear, current, and legally effective under Idaho law
When Should These Documents Be Updated?
You should review and update incapacity planning documents after:
- Marriage or divorce
- Serious illness or diagnosis
- Changes in relationships or trust
- Relocation
- Significant life changes
Outdated documents can be just as problematic as having none at all.
Why Professional Guidance Matters
Generic forms and online templates often:
- Fail to comply with Idaho law
- Create ambiguity about authority
- Are rejected by banks or medical providers
- Lead to court involvement anyway
Careful drafting helps ensure your documents are honored when needed.