Estate Planning
Probate
Power of Attorney
Power of Attorney for Healthcare & Directive to Physicians (Living Will)
Guardianship & Conservatorship

Estate Planning

Estate planning can be easier than you might think. Even in current times, a simple will, a power of attorney, planning for medical emergencies, preparing for taxes, probate avoidance, charitable giving, and much more can be accomplished through no-contact meetings and often no-contact document completion. Protecting yourself and your assets from unforeseen medical expenses, accidental disinheritance, unwise heirs, uncertain business risks, or governmental agencies may seem daunting, but they make up the pieces to the puzzle J. West Law Firm was literally created to solve. Trust us with your ideas, we will build your plan to suit, with minimal contact as desired. Then, count on us if you need help seeing your plan to the finish line. We want to help you know your options today.

Probate

Probate is the process by which a deceased person’s property can be lawfully transferred to its next owner. In Idaho, whether an individual passes with a will, or without one, some form of probate may be the only way to lawfully transfer ownership of their property to others. The answer to your probate questions may be much more simple, and cheaper, than you think. Find out how we can help, call today to talk with a professional at J. West Law Firm.

Power of Attorney

A power of attorney grants authority from one person (“principal”) to another person (“agent”) allowing the agent to act as if he or she were the principal under circumstances outlined in the power of attorney. Unexpected illness, accident, or unavailability are all reasons a power of attorney could become suddenly useful. A Power of attorney can be made effective for a limited time, for a limited purpose, and only effective at the time of a specified event, like during a medical emergency. Planning now with a simple power of attorney can help someone you trust make sure your assets are available when you need help and you are unable to act on your own. Don’t be misled, a power of attorney is no good after the death of the principal, so additional estate planning should still be reviewed. More questions? The J. West Law Firm is here to provide answers. Call today.

Power of Attorney for Healthcare and Directive to Physicians

Included with any will or trust we build at the J. West Law Firm, we will also prepare for you a Power of Attorney for Healthcare, and Directive to Physicians. These documents have distinct but important purposes. A power of attorney for healthcare, much like the power of attorney for financial matters described above, allows a person (“principal”) to grant to another person (“agent”) authority so that the agent can perform healthcare related tasks for the principal’s benefit. Some such tasks can include obtaining medical records, making medical appointments, consulting with the principal’s medical providers and billers, and even making medical decisions for the benefit of the principal when the principal cannot make them him or herself. A medical power of attorney can be limited in time and scope of powers. It can be effective immediately, or not until some future date or event. When a loved one begins to be unable to tend to their own affairs, it may be too late to utilize this valuable tool. Planning now can save a great deal of time and expense later. Call J. West Law Firm today to have your questions answered.
A directive to physicians is a document that defines some of your choices about life or death medical decisions to be used if you are unable to communicate, but are in need extraordinary medical treatment. The directive is a way in which you may state your wishes in the event of such a difficult emergency. With a directive, you will enjoy the peace of mind knowing your medical choices have been expressed and your loved ones are not left to make some very difficult decisions during an already difficult time. Give the gift of peace of mind to your loved ones by laying the foundation of your estate plan now. The J. West Law Firm is ready to help.

Guardianship & Conservatorship

A guardianship gives authority to one person over another for certain matters related to the guarded person’s physical and emotional well-being. An Idaho Conservator is a person who has obligations to receive and manage the financial aspects of a minor, incapacitated, or disabled person. If you are wondering whether a guardian or conservator is right for your situation, we are ready to help guide you. Call or write today for a no obligation consultation with J. West Law Firm.

Adoption

Adoption is a joyful public declaration of the desire to join formally and grow a stable and permanent family. J. West Law Firm is pleased to assist clients in their pursuit to formalize relationships by way of adoption. From a newborn being welcomed home, to older, even adult persons seeking to legally confirm a relationship that is well established, it would be our honor to be trusted with such a special task. We are eager to begin. Please call.