Advising Attorneys

Being appointed as an attorney can be a privilege, being a trusted agent for the principal – but it can also be an onerous position.  If you need to act as an attorney, it is important that you act in the best interests of the principal, and within the terms of the appointment as outlined in the power of attorney document.

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There are many unfortunate that can arise when acting as attorney, and it can sadly place the attorney in a position where they are ‘targeted’ – it might be that another relative is aggrieved, or disagrees with the actions being taken on behalf of the principal, and can extend to allegations that the attorney is acting improperly or even stealing from the principal.

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No matter how seemingly innocent the circumstances, obtaining legal advice about your rights, duties and obligations as attorney can ensure that you don’t run afoul of any power of attorney legal requirements, and minimise any disruption that may be caused by an aggrieved family member.  If you’re an attorney and uncertain about your rights or duties, or have been asked to justify your actions on behalf of a principal, you can contact us for a free 15-minute telephone conversation to get the right information to protect yourself, and your principal whose affairs you are managing.