Lawyers’ book ‘5@55’ tells how to plan for future
Their advice: Have legal documents in place for emergencies
Judith D. Grimaldi and Joanne Seminara have something in common with the Boy Scouts of America. Like the Boy Scouts, “Be Prepared” could be their motto.
The two women, who are lawyers specializing in elder law and estate planning, have written a book, “5@55: The 5 Essential Legal Documents You Need by Age 55,” to offer advice on how to prepare for any eventuality. Pierre Lehu, a writer and public relations representative, worked with Grimaldi and Seminara on the book.
Published by Quill Driver Books, “5@55” offers a step-by-step guide to readers on the necessity of having five documents — a will, a health care proxy, a living will, a power of attorney and a digital diary — in place so that if catastrophe strikes, a person’s wishes can still be carried out.
The goal is to appoint a trusted person to carry out your wishes in the event you become incapacitated and cannot make key life and health decisions yourself, according to the writers.