The Two-Headed Monster: Why Naming Co-Agents in Your Advance Directive is a Mistake скачать в хорошем качестве

The Two-Headed Monster: Why Naming Co-Agents in Your Advance Directive is a Mistake

Think naming two agents in your advanced directive is a good idea? It might just create a nightmare. A two-headed monster that can't make a decision when it matters most. Imagine this: You've created your advance directive thinking that you're making things easier for your loved ones. But instead of appointing one clear agent, you name two people to act together, maybe both of your children or a sibling and a close friend. You think you're being fair, but in reality, you may have just created a two-headed monster. Hi everybody. I'm Elsa W. Smith, your Maryland estate planning attorney, empowering women through estate planning. Here's the problem: A two-headed monster doesn't move in the same direction. One head pulls one way, the other resists. When it comes to your medical decisions, that kind of conflict can be disastrous. If your co-agents disagree on treatment, whether to proceed with a surgery, discontinue life support, or choose a care facility, doctors may be stuck in limbo, waiting for a decision that never comes. The Maryland Advanced Directive allows you to name one primary healthcare agent with a backup or a successor agent. But when you name two or more agents to act together, you risk delay, conflict, and unnecessary stress for your family. In an emergency, every second counts. The last thing you want is a hospital asking, “Who has the final say?” while your loved ones argue. Instead choose one trusted person, someone who understands your wishes and can make decisions under pressure. You can always name an alternate if your first choice isn't available. When it comes to your health, a two headed-monster isn't just a bad idea. It could be a life-threatening one. Make it easy. Name one trusted decision-maker. Your future self will thank you. If you want to make sure your advanced directive is set up the right way, I invite you to schedule a complimentary 15-minute call with a member of our team. The link will be below in the comments. Thanks for watching, and I'll see you in my next video. Take care. If you have any questions related to estate planning, don’t hesitate to message us directly or leave a comment below. 🔽 You can also reach us at 410-995-7719 @elsawsmithlaw . . . . #estateplanning #wills #advancedirective #trusts #financialsecurity #powerofattorney #legacyplanning #willandtrust #healthcaredirectives #probate #elsawsmithlaw #marylandattorney #businesslawyer #lawfirm #attorney #lawyer #yourMDestateplanningattorney #Maryland_virtualestateplanning #virtualestateplanning #incapacityplanning #probate #charitablegiving #bowie #uppermarlboro #annapolis #baltimore #princegeorges #annearundel #washingtondc #co-agent