Enduring power of attorney (EPA) in New Zealand is a legal document which gives a person, known as the donor, the authority to appoint an attorney to act on their behalf should they become mentally incapable of doing so themselves. This document allows the donor to control who should manage their affairs and how they should be managed in the event of mental incapacity. It is a powerful and important document for those who wish to ensure their wishes are followed should they become incapable of managing their own affairs.
An enduring powers of attorney consultancy in New Zealand is only valid if the donor has the mental capacity to understand the nature and effect of the document when they sign it. The document must be signed in front of two witnesses who are over the age of 18 and who are not related to the donor or the attorney.
Image Source: Google
The document itself must include the name of the donor, the attorney, the witnesses and the date of signing. It must also contain a statement of the types of decisions the attorney is authorized to make on behalf of the donor. This can include decisions about property, finances, healthcare and lifestyle.
It is important for those considering an enduring power of attorney in New Zealand to seek independent legal advice and to understand the implications of signing the document. The consequences of signing an enduring power of attorney should not be taken lightly and should be thoroughly considered prior to signing.
