Life is unpredictable under any circumstances but even more so in the midst of the coronavirus pandemic. If something were to happen to you, whether a sudden illness or an injury, are your personal affairs protected?
If not, you may want to consider having a Representation Agreement drawn up with the help of a lawyer. This legal document allows British Columbians to authorize one or more individuals to help manage their affairs and make decisions on their behalf in the event they are physically or mentally incapacitated. Thereby, the person you assign as your representative becomes the legal authority to assist you or act on your behalf.
The Representation Agreement Act came into effect just over twenty years ago. Since then, it has functioned as a safeguard for countless people’s financial affairs. The purpose of the act is to assist individual’s in preparing for the future.
Why You Need A Representation Agreement
- Imagine if you are in an accident and are suddenly unable to communicate. Your agreement comes into play so that you have a trusted adult to speak on your behalf.
- If you are incapacitated in any way, you need a representative you trust who is obligated to speak on your behalf and make important decisions that are in line with your values and beliefs. Otherwise, your money and health care may be mishandled in ways you would not approve.
- You can specify whether your representative can have contact with or associate with certain other people. This is a protective measure against, for example, predatory individuals who prey on widows and widowers.
- A Representation Agreement only ends if you revoke it or pass away. Therefore, you can rely on your specific interests being covered for as long as you need.
- Drawing up a Representation Agreement reduces the burden on your family and friends during a stressful time.
- Additionally, a good agreement negates the possibility of the government getting involved in your personal and health care decisions.
- Having an agreement is ultimately empowering and gives you control over your future.
- You may also express your wishes in the legal agreement regarding ‘end of life’ measures. However, your representative does not have the legal authority concerning assisted death.
- In the absence of a legal agreement, the court process to appoint someone for you is lengthy and expensive. You can avoid this by setting up appropriate arrangements in advance. Doing so assists your loved ones through a tough time, save them legal costs, and helps them adjust.
In brief, estate planning gives you the opportunity to create a guideline for others to follow if you cannot care for yourself. Your legal representative can take care of your health requirements and general financial obligations. You need a reliable representative to help family avoid conflicts of interest.
Preparing a Representation Agreement to suit your unique circumstances is crucial. Doing so ultimately offers peace of mind that your best interests are looked after when you cannot look after them yourself.
The lawyers at Saanichton Law Group are here to help you with many of your legal needs, including employment agreements, power of attorney, real estate law, mortgages and estate law. Call us at (250) 544-0727 or email us at info@saanichtonlaw.com for more details on how we can assist you.
