What is a Power of Attorney and Why Do You Need One?

A power of attorney is one of the most important legal documents you can have. Yet many Ontarians do not have one in place. Here is what you need to know.

What is a Power of Attorney?

A power of attorney is a legal document that authorizes another person — called your attorney — to make decisions on your behalf. In Ontario there are two types: a Power of Attorney for Property and a Power of Attorney for Personal Care.

Power of Attorney for Property

This document authorizes your attorney to manage your financial affairs, including banking, paying bills, and managing investments, if you become unable to do so yourself.

Power of Attorney for Personal Care

This document authorizes your attorney to make decisions about your health care, housing, and personal care if you become mentally incapable of making those decisions yourself.

Why Do You Need One?

Without a power of attorney, your family may need to apply to court to manage your affairs if you become incapacitated — a costly and time-consuming process. Having a power of attorney in place ensures your wishes are known and your affairs are managed by someone you trust.

Contact Wiseberglaw

To have a power of attorney prepared, call Wiseberglaw at (613) 680-1333 or visit our Contact page.