Difference between revisions of "Older People and the Law"
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You can still handle your own affairs after you appoint an attorney. You can also '''revoke''' (that is, cancel) a power of attorney at any time and make a new one with a different attorney, as long as you are mentally capable. | You can still handle your own affairs after you appoint an attorney. You can also '''revoke''' (that is, cancel) a power of attorney at any time and make a new one with a different attorney, as long as you are mentally capable. | ||
===Choosing an attorney=== | ====Choosing an attorney==== | ||
Choosing your attorney is an important decision, and it's not always easy. Most people ask a trusted friend, a relative, or a lawyer to be their attorney. Key considerations include choosing someone you trust, who understands the responsibilities involved, and who ensures your needs — not theirs — come first. | Choosing your attorney is an important decision, and it's not always easy. Most people ask a trusted friend, a relative, or a lawyer to be their attorney. Key considerations include choosing someone you trust, who understands the responsibilities involved, and who ensures your needs — not theirs — come first. | ||
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* '''General power of attorney'''. You appoint an attorney to manage your financial and legal affairs, but the appointment ends if you become mentally incapable. | * '''General power of attorney'''. You appoint an attorney to manage your financial and legal affairs, but the appointment ends if you become mentally incapable. | ||
* '''Enduring power of attorney'''. You appoint an attorney to manage your financial and legal affairs, and the appointment continues — or “endures” — in the event you become mentally incapable. | * '''Enduring power of attorney'''. You appoint an attorney to manage your financial and legal affairs, and the appointment continues — or “endures” — in the event you become mentally incapable. | ||
* '''Limited power of attorney'''. You give someone the power to do certain things only. You say exactly what action your attorney can take. For example, if you are travelling in another country, you might give your attorney the power to do your banking while you are away. | * '''Limited power of attorney'''. You give someone the power to do certain things only. You say exactly what action your attorney can take. For example, if you are travelling in another country, you might give your attorney the power to do your banking while you are away. | ||
===If you have worries about your attorney=== | ===If you have worries about your attorney=== | ||