Power of Attorney & Advance Directives

Power of Attorney and Advance Directives in Alaska

Incapacity planning ensures that if you’re ever unable to manage your affairs or communicate your wishes, the people you trust can step in without delay or court involvement.



At Bridgepoint Law, we prepare powers of attorney and advance health care directives as essential parts of a complete estate plan — giving you control, clarity, and peace of mind for whatever life brings.

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What Is a Power of Attorney?

A Power of Attorney (POA) is a legal document that allows you to appoint someone you trust (called an agent) to handle financial or legal matters on your behalf if you’re unable to do so. Depending on your needs, a POA can allow your agent to:

  • Pay bills and manage bank accounts
  • Handle real estate or business transactions
  • File taxes or manage benefits
  • Make financial decisions during illness or injury

Most people need a durable power of attorney, which remains effective if you become incapacitated. Without one, your loved ones may need to ask a court for permission to act — a stressful and time-consuming process.

What Is an Advance Health Care Directive?

An Advance Health Care Directive (sometimes called a living will) allows you to:


  • Outline your medical treatment preferences

  • Name a trusted person to make health care decisions for you

  • Ensure doctors and hospitals follow your wishes

This document speaks for you if you cannot. It helps prevent confusion, disagreement, or guilt among family members during medical emergencies or end-of-life situations.



Advance directives prepared by Bridgepoint Law comply fully with Alaska law, ensuring they are recognized by health care providers.

Why Incapacity Planning Matters

Many people assume these documents are only for older adults. In reality, incapacity can happen at any age — through accidents, illness, or unexpected medical events.


Without a power of attorney or health care directive:


  • Loved ones may be unable to access accounts or pay bills

  • Medical decisions may be delayed or disputed

  • A court-appointed guardianship or conservatorship may be required

Incapacity planning keeps decision-making where it belongs — with you.

Thoughtful Planning, Not Generic Forms

We don’t believe in handing clients a template and sending them on their way. When we prepare powers of attorney and advance directives, we take time to understand:


  • Who you trust to make decisions


  • What financial authority makes sense for your situation


  • Your values and medical preferences


  • How these documents fit into your broader estate plan

These documents are often created alongside estate planning and trust-based plans to ensure everything works together seamlessly.

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Put the Right Plan in Place — Before You Need It

A power of attorney or advance directive can be prepared long before it’s ever needed — but when it is needed, it makes all the difference.