On Saturday, October 19th, the Utah State Bar’s Young Lawyers Division, in partnership with the Salt Lake City Fire and Police Departments, hosted a remarkable “Wills for Heroes” event at the Utah Law & Justice Center. This initiative provided over 80 emergency responders and their families with essential estate planning services, all at no cost. The event aimed to show appreciation for the brave men and women who dedicate their lives to protecting our community.
With the support of volunteer lawyers from the Young Lawyers Division, first responders received personalized assistance in creating critical documents, including Last Will and Testaments, Powers of Attorney, and Utah Advanced Health Care Directives. These services help ensure that the emergency personnel who risk their lives daily have their legal affairs in order, offering peace of mind for them and their loved ones.
The Wills for Heroes program has been an ongoing success, continually supported by the Utah State Bar. The event on October 19th was no exception, demonstrating the unwavering commitment of Utah’s legal community to give back to those who serve. Volunteer attorneys guided responders through each step of the estate planning process, ensuring that their wishes are clearly outlined and that their families will be well cared for in the event of an emergency or unforeseen circumstance.
One of the significant takeaways from this event was the emphasis on what participants should do next with their completed estate planning documents. According to guidance provided during the event, it’s crucial for emergency responders to store their original documents in a secure location, such as a fireproof safe or a bank deposit box. Ensuring that designated representatives and family members know the location of these documents is equally important to ensure they are accessible when needed.
For responders who created a Last Will and Testament, regular reviews and updates are encouraged, especially after major life events like the birth of a child or changes in family circumstances. Similarly, the importance of sharing copies of Powers of Attorney and Advanced Health Care Directives with the designated agents and primary healthcare providers was underscored, helping to ensure swift action if these documents are ever required.
This event once again highlighted the strong sense of community between the legal profession and first responders in Utah. The volunteers who took part expressed their pride in being able to offer these vital services to those who protect and serve.
The Utah State Bar’s Young Lawyer Division continues to offer programs like Wills for Heroes, emphasizing their commitment to giving back to the community and supporting Utah’s heroes.
For more information on future events or how to participate as a volunteer, visit the Young Lawyers Division website.
