Houck Menninger Law, LLC

A power of attorney is a legal document that grants an individual, known as the agent or attorney-in-fact, the authority to act on behalf of another person, known as the principal. This estate planning tool is used when the principal needs someone to manage their affairs temporarily or permanently. There are several types of POAs: * General POA: Grants broad authority. * Durable POA: Remains in effect even if the principal becomes incapacitated. * Special or limited POA: Grants specific powers for a limited time. * Springing POA: Only takes effect under certain conditions, such as the principal’s incapacitation. Creating a POA involves drafting a legal document that specifies the powers granted to the agent, which must be signed and is often notarized. Key elements of power of attorney include: * Scope of Authority * Duration of the POA * Any other specific instructions or limitations Agents have a fiduciary duty to act in the principal’s best interests, manage their affairs responsibly, and make decisions within the authority granted by the POA. Start the legacy planning conversation. Contact Houck Menninger Law at (937)985-0059 or visit https://lnkd.in/dEvEKsAR #HMLaw #HouckMenningerLaw #AssetProtection #Probate #EstateSettlement #EstatePlanning #Medicaid #Trusts #Estate

The types of trusts available are as varied as individual circumstances, which makes it even more important that you choose the type of trust that works for you and your family. To choose the right trust: Assess Your Needs Determine your personal and financial goals to choose the appropriate trust. Consider factors such as asset protection, tax planning, and beneficiary needs. Consult with an Estate Planning Attorney Professional legal advice is crucial in setting up a trust correctly. An estate planning attorney can guide you through the process, ensuring that your trust meets all legal requirements and effectively achieves your goals. Customize the Trust Tailor the trust provisions to fit your specific circumstances. Your attorney can help you customize the trust to address unique family dynamics, financial situations, and long-term objectives. Review and Update the Trust Periodically review and update your trust to reflect any changes in your circumstances or the law. Regular reviews ensure that your estate plan remains effective and aligned with your current wishes. Begin the legacy protection process. Contact Houck Menninger Law at (937)985-0059 or visit https://lnkd.in/dEvEKsAR #HMLaw #HouckMenningerLaw #AssetProtection #Probate #EstateSettlement #EstatePlanning #Medicaid #Trusts #Estate

Thank you so much, Dean and Lynda! We're thrilled to hear that Rachael Houck was able to provide you with exceptional service. Your kind words about her professionalism, knowledge, and ability to make everything clear and understandable truly mean a lot to us. We're grateful for your trust and your high recommendation! — The Houck Menninger Law, LLC Team Start the legacy planning conversation. Contact Houck Menninger Law at (937)985-0059 or visit https://lnkd.in/dEvEKsAR #HMLaw #HouckMenningerLaw #AssetProtection #Probate #EstateSettlement #EstatePlanning #Medicaid #Trusts #Estate

As we age, planning for the future becomes essential. Whether it's ensuring your healthcare decisions are respected, protecting your assets, or navigating the complexities of Medicaid, an elder law attorney can provide the guidance you need to live your later years with dignity and peace of mind. Below Are 5 Key Areas an Elder Law Attorney Can Assist You With: * Life Care Planning * Health Care Decisions * Medicaid Planning * Long-Term Care Planning * Probate Taking proactive steps now can help you protect your legacy and ensure that your wishes are honored. Take the lead in securing your family's future. Contact Houck Menninger Law at (937)985-0059 or visit https://lnkd.in/dEvEKsAR #HMLaw #HouckMenningerLaw #AssetProtection #Probate #EstateSettlement #EstatePlanning #Medicaid #Trusts #Estate

Thank you, Shannon, for your wonderful feedback! We're delighted to hear that Rachael Houck was able to simplify the process for you and provide the legal peace of mind you were looking for. It’s great to know that you feel secure and confident moving forward. We're grateful for the opportunity to assist you and appreciate your trust in our services! — The Houck Menninger Law, LLC Team Safeguard what matters most. Contact Houck Menninger Law at (937)985-0059 or visit https://lnkd.in/dEvEKsAR #HMLaw #HouckMenningerLaw #AssetProtection #Probate #EstateSettlement #EstatePlanning #Medicaid #Trusts #Estate

When planning your estate, one crucial tool to consider is a trust. Trusts can offer significant benefits, such as avoiding probate, protecting your privacy and that of those you love, and ensuring that your assets are distributed according to your wishes. Understand the different types of trusts, their benefits, and how to choose the right one for your situation when you read this blog post: https://lnkd.in/g-kcb8w4 Leave a lasting legacy. Contact Houck Menninger Law at (937)985-0059 or visit https://lnkd.in/dEvEKsAR #HMLaw #HouckMenningerLaw #AssetProtection #Probate #EstateSettlement #EstatePlanning #Medicaid #Trusts #Estate

According to recent research from PricewaterhouseCoopers, only about one-third of family-owned businesses in the U.S. have a documented succession plan.1 And yet, two-thirds of those owners engage in some form of charitable giving.2 Of course, the lack of succession planning is most often the result of one (or more) of the following: * Procrastination; * Unwillingness to think about the future, for a variety of reasons; or * Lack of information on options in succession planning. It seems curious, though perhaps noble, that a vast majority of business owners would prioritize their communities and charitable causes over the future of their businesses (and by extension, their families). But such a position would assume the two are correlated. I think they are not. Giving back feels good. It does good. And it provides an immediate tax benefit to the business and its owners. Obviously, for many (based on the statistics cited above), succession planning doesn’t provide such an immediate impact, although I believe most anyone would admit that having a plan in place provides much-needed peace of mind and will leave their families – and business – better-positioned. To learn more about this, visit: https://lnkd.in/giS4QsJU Kickstart your legacy planning journey. Contact Houck Menninger Law at (937)985-0059 or visit https://lnkd.in/dEvEKsAR #HMLaw #HouckMenningerLaw #AssetProtection #Probate #EstateSettlement #EstatePlanning #Medicaid #Trusts #Estate

The initiation process for guardianship involves a court proceeding, while a POA is typically established through a private agreement between the principal and the agent. Guardianship requires court oversight and regular reporting, whereas POA involves less formal supervision, with the agent accountable to the principal. The scope and duration of authority differ significantly. Guardianship often lasts as long as the ward is incapacitated, while a POA can be flexible and revocable, depending on the type and terms outlined. Oversight and accountability are more stringent in guardianship due to court supervision. In contrast, a POA’s oversight is primarily based on the trust between the principal and agent, though there are legal remedies available should the agent begin acting improperly. Secure your assets, plan your legacy. Contact Houck Menninger Law at (937)985-0059 or visit https://lnkd.in/dEvEKsAR #HMLaw #HouckMenningerLaw #AssetProtection #Probate #EstateSettlement #EstatePlanning #Medicaid #Trusts #Estate

While many people plan their estates well in advance, sudden illnesses or accidents call for quick and effective emergency estate planning. Having the following documents prepared ahead of time can protect your family in the event of the unexpected: * Last Will and Testament * Durable Power of Attorney * Healthcare Power of Attorney * Living Will * Asset Management and Protection * Beneficiary Designations * Joint Ownership of Assets * Transfer-on-Death (TOD) and Payable-on-Death (POD) Designations For more information about these documents and their function, please visit: https://lnkd.in/gKNYNaHx Secure your family's financial future. Contact Houck Menninger Law at (937)985-0059 or visit https://lnkd.in/dEvEKsAR #HMLaw #HouckMenningerLaw #AssetProtection #Probate #EstateSettlement #EstatePlanning #Medicaid #Trusts #EstateTaxes

Thank you, Dwayne E., for your heartfelt testimonial! We're honored to have had the opportunity to serve your family. Rachael and the entire Houck Menninger Law, LLC team are committed to providing professional, compassionate care every step of the way. We're grateful for your trust! Your legacy matters. Contact Houck Menninger Law at (937)985-0059 or visit https://lnkd.in/dEvEKsAR #HMLaw #HouckMenningerLaw #AssetProtection #Probate #EstateSettlement #EstatePlanning #Medicaid #Trusts #Estate