Legal planning not just for servicemembers Published July 7, 2009 By Capt. Heather Bishop Assistant Staff Judge Advocate SPANGDAHLEM AIR BASE, Germany -- Life can take unexpected turns, so being prepared and having a plan is never a bad idea. The 52nd Fighter Wing Legal Office provides servicemembers and their families with documents that can help when things flip upside-down. A woman was recently admitted to the hospital with a life-threatening illness while her husband was deployed. Many of her questions were unanswered as she lay in the hospital bed listening to the doctors discuss her treatment options. What would happen to her if she could no longer make decisions for herself? What would happen to her children if the treatments were unsuccessful? Unfortunately, she did not have a will or a power of attorney. Although many military members have these documents drafted by the legal office before deployments, many spouses may need these documents, as well. Documents that may have been useful in this situation include: Power of Attorney - allows someone else to act on your behalf. It transfers to another person the legal power and authority to do something you could do if you were personally present. Durable power of attorney for healthcare - authorizes a third party to make healthcare decisions in the event you become incapacitated. Living Will - allows a person to publish his or her wishes regarding life-prolonging medical treatment. Spouses are eligible for legal assistance and these documents can be obtained at the 52nd FW Legal Office. Spouses can come in separately or make a joint appointment with the military member. If you and your spouse decide to come in together, inform the staff when you call to make your appointment. Failing to do so may result in only one spouse being seen on the day of your appointment. For more information on powers of attorney, wills and other legal assistance, call the legal office at 452-6796.