A Medical Power of Attorney is a legal document that allows you to appoint someone you trust—called your agent or proxy—to make healthcare decisions on your behalf if you are unable to do so.
Unlike a living will, which only covers specific medical scenarios, an MPOA ensures there’s a trusted person by your side to interpret your wishes and make real-time decisions that align with your values.
Peace of Mind for You and Your Loved Ones
By clearly naming your healthcare agent, you remove uncertainty, reduce family stress, and ensure that your loved ones know exactly what your preferences are.
Respect for Your Choices
Whether it’s treatment preferences, end-of-life care, or specific medical instructions, an MPOA guarantees your healthcare journey reflects your values.
Preventing Disputes or Delays
In emergencies, families may disagree or courts may need to step in. With an MPOA, decisions are swift, compassionate, and aligned with your wishes.
A Stronger Estate Plan
An MPOA works hand-in-hand with other tools like living wills, financial powers of attorney, and trusts, giving you a complete and secure plan for the future.
Your healthcare agent should be someone you trust completely—someone who can remain calm under pressure and communicate clearly with doctors and family.
Qualities to look for include:
Trustworthiness
Confidence in decision-making
Good communication skills
Ability to stay calm in stressful situations
Willingness to honor your wishes, even if it’s difficult
At Hynes & Chu, LLP, we guide you step by step:
Reflect on Your Wishes – Think about the care you want if you become seriously ill or incapacitated.
Choose Your Agent – Select someone you trust and discuss your decisions with them.
Draft the Document – We prepare a clear, legally sound MPOA that meets state requirements.
Execute Properly – Sign with witnesses (and notarize if needed).
Share It – Give copies to your agent, family, and healthcare providers.
Review and Update – Life changes, and so can your wishes. We’ll help you keep your MPOA current
With over 35 years of experience in elder law, estate planning, and healthcare directives, Hynes & Chu, LLP has helped countless families in Mineola, Brooklyn, and Manhattan protect their future with confidence.
Our compassionate approach ensures that:
You fully understand your options
Your MPOA reflects your values and priorities
Your entire estate plan is coordinated for maximum protection
1. When does a Medical Power of Attorney take effect?
It only takes effect when you are unable to make or communicate your own decisions.
2. Can I change my Medical Power of Attorney?
Yes. As long as you’re competent, you can revoke or update it anytime.
3. Do I need a lawyer to create an MPOA?
While DIY forms exist, mistakes can invalidate them. A lawyer ensures compliance with New York laws and tailors the document to your wishes.
4. What if I don’t have a Medical Power of Attorney?
Your loved ones may face delays, disagreements, or even court intervention to make healthcare decisions on your behalf.
5. Does my MPOA cover long-term care decisions?
Yes, your proxy may make decisions about nursing home care, rehabilitation, or hospice if you cannot.
What Services Do Hynes & Chu, LLP Offer?
Beyond drafting powers of attorney, Hynes & Chu, LLP offers a variety of estate planning and legal services, including:
Wills: Ensure your assets are distributed as per your wishes.
Trusts: Minimize taxes, avoid probate, and protect your estate for future generations.
Health Care Proxies: Appoint someone to make medical decisions if you’re unable to do so.
Guardianship Appointments: Secure the care of minor children or dependents.
Estate Administration: Handle the legal logistics after a loved one has passed away.
Whether you're looking to complete your estate plan or update existing legal documents, their experienced attorneys can assist you every step of the way.
At Hynes & Chu Law LLP, we specialize in estate planning, elder law, and asset protection — providing personalized legal solutions with care, integrity, and experience.
