When someone you love starts showing signs of dementia, it can feel like the ground is shifting under your feet. I’ve worked with countless families who waited too long to take action—because they didn’t know what legal steps to take or when to take them. In this episode, I’m giving you clear, compassionate guidance on how to legally support a loved one experiencing cognitive decline.

Whether you’re caring for a parent, a spouse, or another loved one, I’ll walk you through the difference between durable powers of attorney, advance health care directives, and conservatorships, so you know which tool to use and when.

Here’s what I cover:

• Why a dementia diagnosis doesn’t always mean someone lacks capacity
• What a durable power of attorney is—and how to use it effectively
• When and why conservatorship becomes necessary
• The difference between conservatorship of the person and conservatorship of the estate
• How to act quickly in an emergency with a temporary conservatorship
• The emotional side of these decisions—and how to keep peace in the family

My advice? Don’t wait for a crisis. Legal planning is a form of love, and the earlier you act, the more options you have.

If this episode helped you, please share it with someone who might be navigating the same challenges.

Subscribe to Gavels Down, Voices Up for more legal insights, and visit gettingdivorcednowwhat.com to grab a free chapter of my book!

Ready to learn more about Rachel King:

Website: https://rachelkingattorney.com

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thelawyerking/

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@rachelkinglaw

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5ZIOh5b6kNo3KYojIA8vKw?si=91205d1a16194e67

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Rachel's book, "Getting Divorced: Now What?", is now available. Visit https://rachelkingattorney.com/ for more information and to get your copy.

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