We can help you understand.
A Power of Attorney (POA) is a legal document that gives someone you trust the authority to make financial and legal decisions on your behalf. It is an important planning tool for anyone who wants to ensure their affairs are managed smoothly if they are unable to act for themselves—whether due to illness, travel, or other circumstances. Without a valid Power of Attorney, your loved ones may need to apply to the court for a committeeship to manage your affairs—a process that is more expensive, time-consuming, and stressful.
Under the Power of Attorney Act, there are different forms depending on your needs:
- General Power of Attorney – Grants broad authority over your financial and legal affairs, but ends if you lose mental capacity.
- Enduring Power of Attorney – Continues to be valid even if you become incapable of managing your affairs, making it essential for long-term planning.
- Limited or Specific Power of Attorney – Grants authority for a defined task or period, such as selling a property while you are out of the country.
- Springing Power of Attorney – only comes into effect at such time as you are deemed incapable by medical professionals.
The person you appoint should be:
- Someone you trust completely.
- Capable of handling financial matters responsibly.
- Willing to act in your best interests at all times.
We assist with:
- Advising on the type of Power of Attorney that best meets your needs.
- Drafting a legally sound document tailored to your situation.
- Ensure your Power of Attorney works alongside other estate planning tools, such as Representation Agreements and wills.
A properly prepared Power of Attorney ensures your bills, taxes, and investments are managed without disruption, helps you avoid costly and lengthy legal proceedings, and provides peace of mind knowing that your financial matters will be handled by someone you trust.
Contact our wills & estates lawyers to discuss your Power of Attorney needs and ensure your financial affairs are protected, no matter what the future holds.
