.jpg)
Appointing a Power of Attorney and Medical Treatment Decision Maker is a sensitive and complicated legal process. This procedure requires careful consideration, a comprehensive understanding of the law, and the advice of professionals.
At Goldsmiths Lawyers, our experienced team can provide you with expert guidance to help you understand and navigate the complexities of appointing a Power of Attorney and Medical Treatment Decision Maker.
There are two different types of Power of Attorney in Victoria: enduring and general. A General Power of Attorney grants another person the authority to handle your financial affairs for a specific period or in particular circumstances, and it becomes invalid if you lose mental capacity. The key characteristic of this type is its temporary nature.
In contrast, an Enduring Power of Attorney continues even if you become unable to make decisions due to the loss of mental capacity and can apply to financial matters and personal matters. Given the lasting impact and potential complexities of an Enduring Power of Attorney, it's highly advisable to seek professional legal advice before appointing one.
The process of appointing an attorney under a Power of Attorney is a significant legal measure that requires preliminary steps, such as:
At Goldsmiths Lawyers, our detailed process includes the following steps:
1. Understanding our Client’s Situation & Circumstances
We start our process by meeting our clients and obtaining an understanding of their financial situation and personal circumstances.
2. Advisement
We then advise of the nature and effect of the Power of Attorney document and discuss their wishes for who they would like to appoint.
3. Discuss Decision-Making Capacity
Next, we discuss capacity and make any necessary enquiries to determine whether capacity is an issue.
4. Draft the Power of Attorney and/or Medical Treatment Decision Maker
In accordance with the client’s wishes, we then draft the Power of Attorney and/or Medical Treatment Decision Maker document and advise them of the effect of the document and make any changes as instructed.
5. Execute the Document
inally, we execute the document.
In Victoria, the ability to appoint a Power of Attorney is not universal but is governed by specific legal requirements. The following individuals are able to appoint a Power of Attorney:
Adults
Anyone age 18 years or older decision-making capacity in relation to making the Power of Attorney can make a Power of Attorney.
Individuals with Decision Making Capacity
The person appointing a Power of Attorney must have the mental capacity to make a decision, which means having the ability to understand the information relevant to the decision and the effect of the decision, retain information to the extent necessary to make the decision, use or weigh that information as part of the decision-making process and communicate the decision, views and needs.
Trusts or Corporations
In certain situations, trusts or corporations can also appoint a Power of Attorney to manage specific financial matters on behalf of the entity.
When choosing who to appoint as your Power of Attorney, there are specific legal requirements to consider. The person you appoint:
You should also consider:
You can appoint a relative, friend, or professional adviser like a lawyer or accountant. You also have the option to appoint a trustee company or the Public Advocate in Victoria as your attorney. It's important to note that in the case of an Enduring Power of Attorney, the person you appoint cannot be a care worker, health provider, or accommodation provider for you unless they are also a close relative.
At Goldsmiths Lawyers, our blend of industry expertise and an empathic, client-centric approach makes us more than able to help you navigate this entire process effectively. If you need guidance in appointing a Power of Attorney, enquire with us today.
If you don't have a Power of Attorney in place and you become unable to manage your own affairs due to physical or mental incapacity, there may not be anyone with the legal authority to make decisions on your behalf. In this situation, it may be necessary for an application to be made to the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (VCAT) to appoint an administrator and/or guardian to manage your affairs.
No, your Power of Attorney cannot change or contest your Will while you are still living. The role of a Power of Attorney is to manage your affairs while you are alive, particularly if you are unable to do so yourself. Their power ceases when you pass away. After your death, the administration of your Will is the responsibility of your executor.
While it's not legally required to have a lawyer appoint a Power of Attorney, it is highly recommended. Appointing a Power of Attorney involves making important and potentially complex legal decisions, and the team at Goldsmiths Lawyers can help you navigate these procedures to ensure that your rights and interests are protected.
A lawyer can provide valuable advice, ensure the document is correctly drafted and executed, and help you understand the implications of the powers you're granting to your appointed attorney(s).
We care about you.
We care about your business.
Goldsmiths Lawyers is conveniently located close to Melbourne's Court precinct at:
52-54 Rosslyn Street,
West Melbourne VIC 3003
.jpg)