Power of Attorney (POA) is an essential legal tool that allows someone to act on behalf of another person in financial, legal, or health-related matters. Despite its importance, many need to know how it works, especially in Australia. Understanding the misconceptions can help individuals make informed decisions when creating or acting under a POA.
ONE SIZE FITS ALL
Misconception: A single POA document is suitable for all purposes.
Reality: In Australia, there are different types of POA, each serving distinct functions. These include:
- General Power of Attorney: This allows the appointed person (attorney) to handle financial and legal decisions for the principal while they are still mentally capable. It’s often used for specific transactions or a limited period.
- Enduring Power of Attorney: This type of power of attorney stays valid even if the person giving the control loses the ability to make decisions. It’s essential for long-term planning, especially regarding money and personal issues.
- Medical Power of Attorney: This explicitly allows the attorney to make decisions about medical treatment if the principal cannot do so.
Choosing the appropriate type of POA based on the specific needs and circumstances is essential.
IMMEDIATE AUTHORITY
Misconception: A POA grants the attorney immediate authority to act.
Reality: While a General POA typically takes effect immediately upon signing, an Enduring POA can commence only when the principal is deemed incapable of making decisions. This distinction ensures that the principal retains control over their affairs as long as they are capable.
UNLIMITED POWER
Misconception: An attorney has unlimited power once appointed.
Reality: The powers granted to an attorney are limited to what is specified in the POA document. The principal can restrict the attorney’s authority to specific areas, such as managing certain assets or making particular decisions. Furthermore, the attorney must act in the principal’s best interest and adhere to legal obligations and ethical standards.
IRREVOCABILITY
Misconception: Once a POA is created, it cannot be revoked.
Reality: A principal can revoke a POA at any time, as long as they are mentally capable of making that decision. To be effective, revocation must be in writing and communicated to the attorney and any relevant institutions. Additionally, the appointment of a new POA can automatically revoke a previous one.
SAME FOR ALL STATES AND TERRITORIES
Misconception: POA laws and forms are uniform across Australia.
Reality: Each state and territory in Australia has its own rules and requirements regarding POA. For example, how you must witness and register a POA can differ. It’s essential to ensure that the POA meets all the specific legal requirements of the state or territory where you plan to use it.
SUBSTITUTE FOR A WILL
Misconception: A POA can be used to manage or distribute a person’s estate after their death.
Reality: A power of attorney (POA) only works when the person who made it is alive and stops being valid after they pass away. The executor in the will is responsible for handling and distributing the estate according to the will’s terms. So, a POA shouldn’t be considered a replacement for a will.
NO NEED FOR LEGAL ADVICE
Misconception: Creating a POA is a straightforward process that doesn’t require legal advice.
Reality: Creating a power of attorney (POA) without a lawyer is doable, but getting legal advice is highly recommended. A lawyer can offer helpful guidance on the correct type of POA, the extent of powers to grant, and the legal obligations of the attorney. This ensures that the POA is personalised to the principal’s needs and complies with applicable laws.
Busting these common myths about Power of Attorney in Australia is essential for effective estate planning. A POA can be a game-changer but must be used correctly to protect the principal’s interests. Getting legal advice and carefully considering the specific needs and circumstances can ensure that a POA does what it should.