Power of Attorney Lawyers in Calgary
Appointing A Trusted Representative
It is an unfortunate reality that many people reach a state of incapacity that prevents them from making important personal care or financial decisions. In anticipation of this possibility, giving someone the legal authority to speak for you is prudent when you lack the mental capacity to make your own decisions. Appointing an Attorney by Power of Attorney and an Agent under a Personal Directive (also referred to as a "Living Will" or "Advance Medical Directive") can prevent conflict from arising between your family members when choices must be made on your behalf.
At Kirk Montoute Dawson LLP, we explain the implications of granting authority under a Power of Attorney or Personal Directive. We ensure that you understand under what conditions this authority can be exercised. As experienced legal counsel, we have the substantive knowledge to answer your important questions as you make a choice that could directly affect your way of life.
Designating A Decision-Maker
The onset of dementia, which sometimes coincides with advanced age, can cause one to lose mental capacity, requiring a legal document, such as an Enduring Power of Attorney or Personal Directive, to come into effect.
In addition, younger people who have become mentally incapable due to an accident or severe illness that affects their decision-making capacity may require a trusted person, such as a close friend or family member, to speak and make decisions on their behalf.
A Power of Attorney empowers a trusted person with broad powers to attend to day-to-day financial and property matters, including decisions regarding money, bank accounts, bill payments, business matters, legal decisions, and major transactions involving assets, such as the sale of a home. The written document gives them the same authority you would have over your own affairs and finances. However, a Power of Attorney document does not grant the power to change an existing will or life insurance plan.
A Personal Directive may include choices about living arrangements, dietary requirements, major health decisions, and other largely non-financial decisions. The authority given to these individuals will depend on the specific terms of the documents, which can be tailored to each client's situation.
Our lawyers at Kirk Montoute Dawson LLP will help you set the terms of your Power of Attorney and Personal Directive while you are of sound mind in a way that makes you comfortable and meets your personal needs, should you ever lose capacity. We can also advise the individuals you appoint about the scope of their many legal responsibilities should the Power of Attorney or care directive come into effect.
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Power of Attorney in Calgary: Start Planning Today
Be prepared for life changes. Contact us to schedule a consultation with our Calgary Personal Directive lawyers about Powers of Attorney, financial affairs, and other estate planning tools.
If you seek legal advice and wish to consult with a member of our Alberta firm, call us toll-free at 877-563-5295. In Calgary, call 403-233-9300 or contact us online to book an appointment.