What's happening?
An enduring guardian is a person appointed to make decisions about your health, medical treatment and lifestyle if you become unable to make those decisions yourself. This is distinct from a power of attorney, which deals with financial matters rather than personal and health decisions.
What could it mean for me?
- Without an appointed enduring guardian, decisions about your care may need to be made by a default decision-maker or a tribunal in some situations
- You can specify particular wishes or limits on the guardian's authority
- The person appointed should understand and be willing to carry out your wishes
- An enduring guardianship appointment can generally be revoked while you retain capacity
What are my options?
- Appoint an enduring guardian as part of your broader estate planning
- Record specific wishes about medical treatment or care preferences
- Consider appointing an alternate guardian in case your first choice is unavailable
What happens next?
- We discuss your wishes regarding future healthcare and lifestyle decisions
- The appointment document is prepared
- The document is signed and witnessed in accordance with legal requirements
- We explain how and when the appointment would take effect
How can MGE Lawyers help?
We prepare enduring guardianship appointments alongside wills and powers of attorney, so your overall planning is consistent and clearly documented.
We explain the difference between financial and personal decision-making authority, so you understand exactly what each document covers.