Two Minutes with Tom and the Team
July 2026
Estate Planning: When Is It Too Late for a Power of Attorney?
One of the most common calls we receive as estate planning attorneys comes from families asking if they can get a Power of Attorney after a loved one has already lost the ability to make decisions.
Unfortunately, by that point, the answer is often, ‘no.’ In this video, Attorney Stephen Wallace explains:
- What a Financial Power of Attorney does
- Why it must be signed while you still have legal capacity
- What happens if you wait too long
- How planning ahead can help your family avoid a lengthy, stressful, and expensive guardianship proceeding
A Power of Attorney is one of the most important documents in a comprehensive estate plan. Taking action today can save your loved ones significant time, money, and heartache in the future.
If you have questions about creating or updating your estate plan, Downs Law Firm is here to help.
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Contact us to learn more about taking care of your loved ones through Estate Planning. Book a free consultation to speak with one of our estate planning attorneys. To contact Downs Law Firm, please call (301)756-1733 or email info@downslawfirm.com.
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Estate Planning Resources
Planning for the future is a vital step towards securing your legacy and protecting your loved ones. In the video series, Two Minutes with Tom and the Team, the team at the Downs Law Firm explore the various facets of Estate Planning, including understanding wills and trusts, beneficiary designations, planning for long-term care, and more.
To learn more about these Estate Planning topics, visit our blog.
Founded in 1995 by Tom Downs, Downs Law Firm remains a leading legal counsel for Estate Planning, Probate and Trust Administration, and Asset Protection throughout the Baltimore-Washington corridor.