While no one expects to lose the capacity to manage their own affairs, many people feel comfort from knowing that they have planned ahead. Making appropriate arrangements for a trusted relative or friend to make decisions on your behalf if something does happen will give you peace of mind.

All too often loved ones are left, not being able to look after their significant other, mother or father because the right measures have not been planned for in the event of illness or loss of capacity.

We guides her clients through the appropriate options and alternatives available in the event of varying circumstances, illness or loss of capacity. Generally these options can be categorised by two areas:

1. Power of Attorney
A Power of Attorney is a document you can sign to appoint another person to act for you in relation to financial and legal affairs. The document states what the attorney is authorised to do. This can be as specific or as a general as you wish. An enduring power of attorney must be made when you are of sound mind. It is too late to appoint an attorney after you have lost the capacity to manage your own affairs.

2. Enduring Guardian
An enduring guardian is someone you appoint; at a time when you have capacity, to make personal, health or lifestyle decisions on your behalf should you lose the capacity to make them for yourself. We call this a “living Will”.

The importance of planning ahead should be a priority. If you are elderly, have elderly parents, have children, are part of a blended family or at risk of terminal illness, now is the time to be making the appropriate plans.

Don’t put it off any longer. Plan now, for the future.

Call Cleary Law on 9523 7084 or email us today.