Power of Attorney
An Enduring Power of Attorney is a document to authorize attorney(s) you have named to act on your behalf with respect to your property, financial, and legal affairs. An Enduring Power of Attorney permits your attorney to manage your affairs even if you become mentally incapacitated. It does not give your attorney(s) the legal right to make medical or personal decisions on your behalf.
Without a power of attorney, if you become incapacitated, your loved ones will need to go through a time-consuming and costly legal process to have a guardian appointed to manage your affairs through the court. A power of attorney that isn’t executed by a legal professional is unlikely to be accepted with third parties like banks, Land Title Office, or ICBC.
A power of attorney executed by a legal professional or a court appointment guardian called a committee is the only accepted form to appoint an alternate decision maker for land and property in BC. For example, if your family needs to sell your home to pay for your care or because you can no longer live there. A power of attorney executed by Coastal Notary Group would help avoid the need for court intervention to appoint a guardian if the situation arose.
Frequently asked questions
Why you need a Will
Appointing an Executor: You can name an executor in your will, who will be responsible for managing your estate, paying off debts, and distributing assets according to your instructions. This ensures that someone you trust is overseeing your affairs after your death. Distribution of Assets: A will allows you to specify how you want your…
Why you need a Power of Attorney
Incapacity Planning: Life is unpredictable, and there might come a time when you are unable to make decisions due to an accident, illness, or cognitive decline. Appointing an attorney allows you to choose someone you trust to manage your financial and legal matters if you are incapacitated. Continuity of Financial Affairs: If you become temporarily…
Why you need a Representation Agreement
Advocacy: Your representative can act as your advocate and ensure that your wishes are communicated and respected by healthcare professionals and other caregivers. Avoiding Conflict: Appointing a representative can help avoid potential conflicts among family members or loved ones about what decisions should be made for you. Your appointed representative will have legal authority to…