top of page

Veterans Wills Clinic

The Veterans Wills Clinic is a free legal service designed to assist veterans, active-duty service members, and eligible spouses with essential end-of-life legal planning. Staffed by licensed attorneys and trained volunteers, the clinic helps ensure that your wishes are clearly documented and legally protected.

 How It Works

  • Clinics are offered at designated times and locations throughout Idaho, often in partnership with VA centers, veterans organizations, or legal aid providers.

  • Appointments are required, and attendees will be asked to complete a brief intake form in advance.

  • All documents are drafted and signed on-site in a single session whenever possible.

Understanding Your Estate Planning Documents

1. Last Will and Testament ("Will")

A Will is a legal document that outlines how your property and belongings (your “estate”) will be distributed after your death. It allows you to:

  • Name who will inherit your assets (family, friends, charities, etc.)

  • Appoint an executor to carry out your wishes

  • Designate a guardian for minor children, if needed

Without a Will, state law will determine how your estate is divided — which may not reflect your preferences.

2. Living Will

(Also called an Advance Directive or Directive to Physicians)

A Living Will explains what kind of medical care you want — or do not want — if you become terminally ill or permanently unconscious and can’t communicate. It allows you to:

  • Decide whether you want life-sustaining treatments (like feeding tubes or ventilators)

  • Relieve your family from making difficult end-of-life decisions without guidance

  • Ensure your values are honored during critical moments

3. Health Care Power of Attorney (HCPOA)

A Health Care Power of Attorney lets you appoint someone you trust — called a “health care agent” — to make medical decisions on your behalf if you become incapacitated. Your agent can:

  • Speak with doctors

  • Approve or decline treatments

  • Ensure your health care wishes are followed

This document is different from a Living Will, though they often work together.

4. General (Durable) Power of Attorney (POA)

A General POA gives someone the authority to manage your financial and legal affairs if you're unable to do so. This person (your “agent”) can:

  • Pay your bills

  • Access your bank accounts

  • Sign legal documents

  • Handle real estate or insurance matters

This POA can be limited in scope or broad, and it can take effect immediately or only if you're incapacitated.

No events at the moment

bottom of page