Planning for the future isn't just about retirement accounts and life insurance. It also involves preparing for scenarios where you might not be able to make decisions due to illness or incapacitation. Power of Attorney (POA) is a legal instrument that allows someone else to handle your financial or health decisions on your behalf. This blog post will discuss the importance of establishing a Power of Attorney, what types are available, and how Jeanne M. Anderson can assist in creating a POA that suits your needs and gives you peace of mind.

Understanding Power of Attorney

A Power of Attorney is a document that grants another person or entity the authority to make decisions on your behalf. The person you designate is called an "agent" or "attorney-in-fact," and their power can be as broad or as specific as you wish. Here’s what you need to know:

Types of Power of Attorney:

• General Power of Attorney: Gives broad powers to your agent in financial or business matters.
• Limited Power of Attorney: Grants your agent authority to act in specific matters or events, like selling a property.
• Health Care Power of Attorney: Allows your agent to make medical decisions for you when you are incapacitated.
• Durable Power of Attorney: Remains in effect even if you become mentally incapacitated and is recommended for long-term planning.

Why is Power of Attorney Important?

• Managing Financial Affairs: A POA can manage your finances—from paying bills to handling investments—if you're unable to do so.
• Healthcare Decisions: A health care POA ensures that someone you trust can make medical decisions according to your wishes.
• Avoiding Legal Complications: Without a POA, your family might have to undergo costly and lengthy court proceedings to get authority over your affairs if you become incapacitated.

Drafting Your Power of Attorney

• Step 1: Determine the Necessary Type of POA: Depending on your circumstances, you might need one or more types of POAs. Consider what aspects of your life you want to be managed and under what conditions.
• Step 2: Choose Your Agent Wisely: The person you choose to be your agent should be trustworthy, reliable, and ideally, have some knowledge of your affairs. They should also be willing to act in your best interests.
• Step 3: Specify the Powers and Limits: Clearly outline what your agent can and cannot do in your POA document. This can prevent misuse of the powers granted and ensure they act within the scope you're comfortable with.
• Step 4: Legal Validation: To ensure that your POA is legally binding, it must meet state legal requirements. In Minnesota and Wisconsin, these include being witnessed and notarized.

How Jeanne M. Anderson Can Help

Jeanne M. Anderson is dedicated to ensuring that your Power of Attorney covers all bases. She provides:

• Personalized Legal Advice: Every situation is unique, and Jeanne offers tailored advice to match your specific circumstances and needs.
• Flexibility and Accessibility: Jeanne meets with clients according to their schedules and is quick to respond to any concerns or questions.
• Efficient Service: Jeanne ensures that all documents are prepared and finalized within your timeline, prioritizing your peace of mind.



A Power of Attorney is an essential component of responsible life planning. It ensures that your affairs are in order should you become unable to manage them yourself. With Jeanne M. Anderson’s compassionate and competent legal assistance, you can prepare for the future confidently, knowing that your interests will be safeguarded no matter what life throws your way. Take the step today to protect yourself and your loved ones tomorrow.