Combat readiness is key in the post-9/11 environment. A key to ensure combat readiness is to make sure one's legal affairs are in order. This starts with a visit to the base legal office.
The legal office assists Airmen with routine matters such as claims and notaries, but we are also equipped to deal with more complicated issues such as power of attorney and wills. The legal office advises customers about readiness issues and preventive measures to take care of military and their family members; these include education and advice about the SCRA and USERRA.
When the deployment rotation begins, family members will be left behind.
It's important for military members to have all their affairs in order before they deploy. Otherwise, it's the spouse, kids or other family member left behind who will potentially be affected.
The legal office is ready to assist deployers with issues such as wills, powers of attorney, providing for incapacity, personal finances, etc.
There are good reasons for adults to have wills. A will can assist in ensuring wishes for property division are carried out. This may seem like a difficult thing to do, but you will want to take control, instead of letting the courts decide.
Powers of attorney are a way of permitting others to act on one's behalf.
Whether it is taking a child to the hospital for a medical appointment or allowing a trusted agent access to one's bank account, a power of attorney can alleviate deployment headaches, allowing the warfighter to focus on the task at-hand. A power of attorney can make sure deploying member's children are taken care of when it comes to enrolling in school.
Powers of attorney and notaries are on walk-in basis from 0900-1500 Monday thru Thursday. Will appointments and legal assistance appointments must be scheduled in advance by contacting the legal office.
For more information, Airmen should contact the 412 TW/JA base legal office at 661-277-4310.