Powers of Attorney

Many people assume that if they become incapable of dealing with their own affairs, either through loss of mental or physical capacity, that their spouse/civil partner, or closest family member will automatically be able to act on their behalf. Unfortunately, this is not the case.

Unless there is a Power of Attorney set up in advance, no one has an automatic authority to make decisions about your life if you lose the ability to make decisions for yourself.

What is a Power of Attorney?

A Power of Attorney is a written document giving someone else authority to take actions or make decisions on your behalf if you become unable to do so yourself.

There are three different types of Power of Attorney:

1. General Power of Attorney

Usually created for a set amount of time or for a specific matter i.e. if you are out of the country for a period of time.

2. Continuing Power of Attorney

Allows your Attorney to look after your financial affairs and property. This may be granted with the intention of taking effect immediately or in the event that you become incapable of handling matters yourself.

3. Welfare Power of Attorney

Enables your Attorney to make decisions about your health and welfare, which includes making decisions on medical matters, your personal appearance, and diet. These powers cannot be exercised until you are no longer capable of making these decisions yourself.

What does incapable mean?

Your capacity can diminish over time due to a progressive illness or suddenly as a result of an accident or illness. A registered medical practitioner will be able to say whether you are incapable or not.

Is a Power of Attorney just for older people?

No, no one likes to think that they may not be able to look after their own affairs but accidents and illness can happen to anyone at any time.

What if I have been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease or dementia?

Just because you have been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease or Dementia, does not necessarily mean you lose capacity immediately. Mental capacity can change in the short and long term and even on a day-to-day basis. It will depend on your diagnosis and your capacity at the time you are considering a Power of Attorney.

What would happen if I do not have a Power of Attorney?

If you do not have a Power of Attorney and become ill or lose capacity, your family or loved ones may have to apply to the Court for a Guardianship Order. This process generally takes a long time, will be expensive, and can be an extremely stressful and emotional experience for everyone involved.

Importantly, the person appointed by the Court to be your Guardian may not be who you yourself would have chosen as your Attorney. It is also a more arduous task being appointed as Guardian rather than an Attorney. The Guardian is subject to more stringent scrutiny from the Office of the Publ