Why do I need an Enduring Power of Attorney?
We have found that a number of our clients are concerned about what will happen to them in the event of losing mental capacity through such illnesses as Alzheimer’s disease, dementia or stroke. If such an event happens, it is extremely useful for the person or people involved in their care to have a legal document called an Enduring Power of Attorney (EPA), allowing them to deal with the affairs of the incapacitated person. It only takes effect after the loss of mental capacity occurs, as verified by medical personnel.
By setting up an EPA in advance, the ‘donor’ is able to choose someone (‘the attorney’) they trust to deal with their affairs. If a person does not have an EPA, and later loses mental capacity, then it can be necessary for an application to be made to the Office of the Wards of Court or the High Court, which is bureaucratic, time consuming and costly.
There is still a considerable amount of paperwork involved when making an EPA, such as the notification forms and Court registration forms. A solicitor can help by taking all the worry away and can complete these for you as quickly as possible. An EPA gives you peace of mind knowing that you are appointing someone you trust to deal with your affairs in the event that you are no longer able to.
If you, or someone you know, would like more information and advice on EPAs, you should contact a specialist solicitor to help you.
We will be at Stand 54 at the Over 50s Show at the RDS in Dublin from 21-23 October 2011 should you wish to discuss this or any other legal concerns that we can help you with. Please also feel free to email me in advance at Bernadette@parte.ie
Bernadette Parte
Solicitor & Notary Public
Parte & Associates
17 Upper Baggot Street
Dublin 4
Phone 01-6608 353
Email: www.parte.ie
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