06/01/2026
Last month, a daughter contacted Crain & Wooley after receiving the heartbreaking diagnosis that her father was suffering from dementia. She needed access to funds in order to help provide care and manage her Dad’s affairs — but unfortunately, by the time she reached out, Dad one was no longer legally capable of creating or signing Power of Attorney documents.
Now, instead of being able to immediately step in and help, the family is facing the emotional, expensive, and often lengthy adult guardianship process through the court system.
This situation is one we see far too often, and it highlights an important truth: being next of kin does NOT automatically give someone the legal authority to make financial or medical decisions for another adult during times of disability or incapacity.
Properly prepared Power of Attorney documents can help families avoid guardianship proceedings altogether and allow trusted loved ones to act quickly when help is needed most.
Estate planning is not just about what happens after death — it is also about protecting yourself and your family during life’s most difficult moments.
At Crain & Wooley, we help families prepare before a crisis happens. Learn more here: https://www.estateplanningdfw.law/estate-planning/disability-planning/ #~b1bdebcc-76dd-4fc3-8b92-824e784f06ed