To put it simply, appointing an attorney now will make things easier for you and your family in future in case there is a change in your circumstances. If you are unable to make your own decisions in relation to your property or personal care and welfare, whether due to your capacity, health issues or otherwise, you will have a procedure in place for someone to make these decisions for you.
If you are going away, whether for work, to see family or if you are going overseas, appointing an attorney can make things so much easier for you. Having an attorney appointed for property means that they can act on your behalf and can sign documents when you can’t!
You have full discretion to choose how and when your attorney can act for you and on what terms. Talk to us about your particular circumstances and we can draw up a document to suit you. If you wish for your attorneys to consult with someone else before making decisions or to provide someone with information on decisions made, you have free reign to do so. Simply let us know their details to have this included as a requirement.
Having Attorneys appointed now, will avoid potential issues down the track. If a loved one loses capacity and has not already appointed an Attorney, the only option available is for a family member to apply to the Family Court to be appointed a welfare guardian and property manager. This process can take time, it is a lot more expensive and will need to be renewed every three years.