This blog post covers the legal steps that military personnel need to take to protect themselves and their military families. You will find details on creating a will, power of attorney, and healthcare directive. These documents are essential for ensuring that your loved ones are taken care of if something happens to you while serving our country.
Will
Wills are essential for making sure your assets are dispersed in accordance with your preferences when you pass away. If you do not have a will, your assets will be distributed according to state law. Creating a will is simple and can be done with the help of an attorney. In most cases, you need to list who you want to inherit your assets and name an executor who will carry out your wishes. Military personnel should also create a will if they are divorced or have children from a previous marriage.
If you do not have a will and die while married, your spouse will automatically inherit all of your assets. When you die while divorced, your ex-spouse will inherit half of your assets, and your children will each inherit a quarter of your assets. If you have children from a previous marriage, you should name who you want to take custody of them in your will.
Healthcare Directive
Military personnel should also create a healthcare directive. This document specifies who you want to make medical decisions for you if you are unable to make them yourself. You can also specify how you want to be treated if you are terminally ill or in a persistent vegetative state.
Power of Attorney
A power of attorney is a document that allows someone else to act on your behalf in legal matters. It is crucial if you are deployed overseas or unable to attend court hearings due to injury or illness. You can use your power of attorney to make decisions about your property, finances, and healthcare. It is essential to choose someone you trust to act as your power of attorney.
Take Away
Creating a will, healthcare directive, and power of attorney is vital for military personnel. These documents ensure that your loved ones are taken care of if something happens to you while serving our country. Make sure to work with a qualified attorney to create these documents. Your attorney should also come in handy in case you face legal trouble while serving the country.