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Difference between revisions of "Older People and the Law"

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At any age, it’s important to put your affairs in <span class="noglossary">order</span> in case something drastic happens to you. But this becomes especially important as you get older.
At any age, it’s important to put your affairs in <span class="noglossary">order</span> in case something drastic happens to you. But this becomes especially important as you get older.


For most people, making a '''will''' is a critical step to plan for their passing. And there are documents to consider putting in place in case you get sick or become mentally incapable. These include a '''power of attorney''' and a '''representation agreement'''.
For most people, making a '''will''' is a critical step to plan for their passing. And there are documents to consider putting in place in case you get sick or become mentally incapable. These include a '''power of attorney''' and a '''<span class="noglossary">representation</span> agreement'''.


===Making a will===
===Making a will===
A '''will''' is a legal document that sets out what will happen after you die to (most of) your property and any minor children. (A will doesn't cover property you own jointly with other people or accounts where you've named a '''beneficiary'''.)
A '''will''' is a legal document that sets out what will happen after you die to (most of) your <span class="noglossary">property</span> and any minor children. (A will doesn't cover <span class="noglossary">property</span> you own jointly with other people or accounts where you've named a '''beneficiary'''.)


A will is not the same as a '''power of attorney'''. A power of attorney sets out your instructions for dealing with your financial and legal affairs ''while you are alive''. (See the next section about powers of attorney.)
A will is not the same as a '''power of attorney'''. A power of attorney sets out your instructions for dealing with your financial and legal affairs ''while you are alive''. (See the next section about powers of attorney.)
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