Appoint an enduring Power of Attorney or Enduring Guardians to protect your assets and wellbeing if the unexpected should occur.
No matter what stage of life you are at, it’s a good idea to appoint an Enduring Power of Attorney or Enduring Guardian. This is the person who can make decisions on your behalf should you suddenly become unable to.
An enduring power of attorney allows you to nominate someone to manage your financial affairs for you. This is a useful document as it allows your attorney/s to manage your finances for the benefit of you and your family whilst you are still alive.
An appointment of enduring guardian allows you to nominate someone to make decisions about your health care and lifestyle should you no longer be able to.
Think carefully about who you would trust in these important roles, as once you become unable to make decisions for yourself you will be unable to change your nominees. They need to be 18 years of age or older, and have legal capacity to make decisions for you.
Consider who will act in your best interests, listen to what you want and respect your choices, and who would be comfortable taking on the role.
We frequently discuss these arrangements at the same time as preparing your will, and can prepare this document on your behalf. It may never be used, but if you don’t have it in place you could place unnecessary strain on family members during a difficult time.
Contact us for more information on Power of Attorney agreements