This article appeared in the May 2000 issue of Redbook.
"Disaster planning - being prepared in case you or your spouse suffers a catastrophic injury or is diagnosed with a debilitating illness - is really a quality-of-life issue," says Joseph L. Romano, a liability lawyer in Norristown, PA, and the author of a book on legal rights for the disabled. What every couple should have and do:

This document names someone else - your spouse or another relative or friend - to act on your behalf, writing checks, opening bank accounts, and signing legal documents. A durable power of attorney is more all-encompassing then the more commonly used limited power of attorney, so you won't have to formally ask in court to be appointed your loved one's guardian.

This document designates another person to make healthcare decisions for you, from authorizing a blood transfusion to agreeing to life support treatment. You can also specify a "do not resuscitate" order. Copies of your livinig will should be in your personal files as well as in your medical file in your primary care doctor's office. In the event of a catastrophic accident or illness, copies should be given to any doctor who's treating you and any hospital where you may be receiving treatment. (Don't use a standardized form or try to write your own; laws vary state by state, so it's best to consult a lawyer.)

If you have children who are minors or if your possessions include stock holdings, bonds or trusts, it's best to have a lawyer draw up a will designating who should get what; in very straightforward cases, standardized forms will do. Signed documents should be kept in your safe deposit box or a home safe.

Ask yourself:

Do you know what to do in the event of a dispute? Get copies of your complete insurance benefits (not just the plan summary) from your company's human resources department; review to be sure you understand what's covered and what's not.

Since this is most often offered by your employer, make sure you understand its terms.

One rough guideline is that it should be five to ten times the amount of your annual earnings.

If you cannot work, the insurance will pay premiums on your outstanding loans or mortgage.

For a free copy of Romano's book, Legal Rights of the Catastrophically Ill and Injured, which details your legal and medical rights, call 800-331-4134 or email info@josephromanolaw.com.