Common law marriage or domestic partnerships are not recognized in Arizona, so therefore you may not have the authority and protections that a married couple have.  The right to help someone with making medical and financial decisions, as well as inherit in an unmarried relationship may be denied.

At Arizona Mobile Attorneys, we can help you and your family attain these rights and protections with an estate plan that will enable you the same as traditional couples.

Powers of Attorney- Healthcare

Spouses and blood relatives are favored by the laws, when it comes to care of a patient. A partner may not be able to even visit the partner.  A power of attorney for healthcare gives the partner the authority to make medical decisions when their partner is incapacitated. It also enables the partner the authority to honor the Living Will, which specifies the end-of-life care.

Power of Attorney-Financial

The Power of Attorney for financial will allow the partner to handle financial transactions when the partner is incapacitated- go to the bank, pay bills and many other rights.

Wills

The partner can leave his/her assets to his(her)partner if he(she) so choses. If you don’t have a will ( or a trust) your estate will be intestacy and your belongings may go to your heirs and not your partner.

Guardianship for Minor Children

If you have minor children, and you want them to remain in the care of your partner you need a guardianship plan. If you do not have a guardianship plan, your children can be removed and placed in the care of a family relation.