Legal

Legal Planning Hub

Legal planning puts your parents’ wishes in writing and names the people they trust to act if they cannot — for their money, their health care, and their estate. Done ahead of time, it helps others carry out your goals, spares your family difficult guesswork, and often avoids court involvement later.

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Last reviewed: July 31, 2026

A practical path forward

Start with these steps

Talk with your parents about the role of legal planning.
Choose the people you trust for each role, and talk with them about your wishes.
Gather key documents in one place, and note which ones you still need to create.

What this section covers

Financial power of attorney. Naming someone to handle money matters if you can't.
Health care proxy and advance directives. Recording your medical wishes and who speaks for you.
Wills. Directing who receives what, and naming an executor.
Trusts and estate planning. Managing assets, privacy, and often avoiding probate.
Guardianship, conservatorship, and legal help. Court options, less-restrictive alternatives, and finding an attorney.

A few things to keep in mind

Laws differ by state, and the right documents depend on your situation, so this section is a starting point rather than a substitute for advice. Begin with the older adult's goals, values, choices, and consent, then select documents that help others carry out those wishes. Store finished documents safely, and make sure a trusted person knows where to find them.

Next step

Review my legal checklist.

Guidance, not a substitute for professional advice

This section offers general information, not legal advice. For documents that fit your state and circumstances, work with a qualified attorney, such as an elder-law attorney. Free or low-cost help may be available through legal aid and your Area Agency on Aging.