Creating a will can be an uncomfortable and daunting process, but it is important for individuals to have a plan in place. Attorney Farren Sheehan and her team at Sheehan Law walk individuals through every step of the process to make sure clients' wishes are honored.

Sheehan said an aspect of estate planning that many individuals overlook, but are crucial for effective planning, include disability documents.

This group of documents include:

• A Statutory Durable Power of Attorney, which allows someone to make financial decisions for an incapacitated individual
• A Medical Power of Attorney, which allows someone to make medical decisions for an incapacitated individual
• A HIPAA release, which dictates who receives medical information
• A Guardianship provision, which is for individuals who can no longer care for themselves
• An Advanced Directive, which gives someone the ability to express their final wishes and how they want their end of life care to be handled.

“To me, disability documents are equally as important as having a will, because this is how people can help you now,” Sheehan said. “I think everyone over the age of 18 needs to have them.”

Although these documents are important, Sheehan said many individuals are hesitant to complete these documents, often out of fear that they will lose control over their lives.

“So many people are afraid that people will use this to harm them or control them,” Sheehan said. “They're afraid to recognize the fact that we don't always keep our capacity or live as healthily as we'd like to. These documents are really helpful to let people assist you when or if it is needed.”

Another common misconception is related to living wills. Sheehan said a living will is the same as an advanced directive, and it is meant to ensure quality end-of-life care.

“What we're talking about with the advanced directive is how you want life-extending treatment handled,” Sheehan said. “Do you want your life to be extended, or do you want to be allowed to pass naturally? It can be a very uncomfortable subject for lots of people. If you're concerned, you can always delegate that decision to your agent. Say, whoever my agent is going to be, they're the ones that should make that decision at the time.”

Because Sheehan has been practicing law for 20 years, she has the knowledge and experience to provide the best service to her clients. Sheehan knows that each individual’s circumstance is unique, so she takes a personalized approach to ensure the individual has an ideal plan for their needs.

To make estate planning more approachable, Sheehan hosts free information seminars like Wine and Wills, where attendees can learn about the nuances of wills, trusts and disability documents in a relaxed environment. The next seminar is scheduled for Oct. 24, providing an opportunity for the community to gain valuable insights while enjoying a glass of wine. Individuals can contact her office regarding more details at (512) 251-4553.

Through compassionate guidance and a wealth of experience, Sheehan empowers her clients to make informed decisions that bring peace of mind. To learn more about Sheehan Law, PLLC, visit the practice’s website.

The above story was produced by Multi-platform Journalist Mary Katherine Shapiro with Community Impact's Storytelling team with information solely provided by the local business as part of their "sponsored content" purchase through our advertising team.