North Shore Enduring Power of Attorney Lawyer – What Does It Mean?
When people become incapacitated, it is difficult for them to make decisions. Often, it would be useful if a relative or friend was able to make decisions for them. However, that is not possible unless the person has signed an Enduring Power of Attorney. This article looks into the subject and, if you live in north Auckland, why you need to consult a North Shore Enduring Power of Attorney lawyer.
What Is An Enduring Power of Attorney?
It is a document that grants legal authority to a specific person the ability to act on behalf of another person. The designated person, which can be a relative or lawyer, can make decisions and take action on financial issues, for example. This is a common situation. Other Enduring Powers of Attorney can be applied to medical issues, mental capability, travel, or living accommodation. A North Shore Enduring Power of Attorney lawyer can explain more to you.
What Is It Important To Have An Enduring Power Of Attorney In Place?
People generally think of having an Enduring Power of Attorney for their elderly relatives. For example, if they have to move from their home to a different place, whether with an adult child or a rest-home, there will be costs associated with this. The rest-home itself will have costs but the house where they previously lived will have ongoing costs such as the electricity bill. If there is an Enduring Power of Attorney in place, then the designated person, probably the adult child, can contact the electricity company and terminate the supply, and therefore the bill. If there is no such authority in place, then the adult child will have to go through a lawyer to arrange permission. This will cost not just the lawyer’s fees, but there will be court costs, and others no doubt.
If the elderly person needs medical treatment, they may not be able to give their consent for the doctors to go ahead with any necessary treatment. An Enduring Power of Attorney for medical issues, will give the designated person the suitable authority to give permission to the medical staff.
It’s Not Only Elderly People Who Might Need An Enduring Power Of Attorney
Imagine if you are involved in a car accident and are in hospital for a few weeks. Again, you will have ongoing bills, broadband, electricity, maybe food deliveries. You and a sibling can set up Enduring Powers of Attorney for each other for just such a situation.
While you are recovering in hospital, your sibling can contact the various suppliers and pause those services. They could also get in touch with your bank to make payments to other suppliers.
Again, without these authorisations in place, it will be either impossible to carry out these tasks or require lots of time and expense via lawyers, to get them carried out.
Types of Enduring Powers of Attorney
There are two types of EPA ; One for finances, and the other for medical. It is a good idea to have both set up.
How To Set Up An EPA
Talk to your parents, children, siblings, or lawyer to discuss what you want, and the circumstances when an EPA will come into effect. They may be hesitant to discuss your potential impediments, but these situations are very common, and very real. It saves a lot of heartache and money to have sensible, frank discussion before they are needed.
Revoking an EPA
You can revoke an EPA at any stage. An EPA becomes void upon the death of the donor.
Talk To A North Shore Enduring Power of Attorney Lawyer
If you are considering setting up an EPA, and it is very strongly encouraged that you do, there are templates available online. However, to ensure that your wishes are accurately captured, it is a good idea to talk to an expert who can give suggestions and advice. You can find a North Shore Enduring Power of Attorney lawyer such as McVeagh Fleming, to help you.