Life is an unpredictable journey with twists and turns that can challenge our emotional, financial, and mental well-being. While you may not have a crystal ball to see into the future, you can certainly prepare for unforeseen circumstances. One crucial aspect of this preparation, especially for adults at any stage of life, is setting up an Enduring Power of Attorney.

The following guide aims to demystify the subject of Enduring Power of Attorney in Ireland, explaining its importance, legal provisions, and how to go about it (without any stress). Ready to safeguard your future?

The purpose of an Enduring Power of Attorney (EPA), is to appoint a person (an Attorney), to manage your personal and/or financial affairs, in the event you become mentally incapacitated.

An EPA isn’t just a piece of paper; it’s a lifeline. It is a legal arrangement that ensures someone you trust implicitly can make crucial decisions on your behalf should you no longer have the mental capacity to do so yourself.

In simple terms, it’s a way to prepare for the worst, while hoping for the best.

Although this article focuses on the Enduring Power Of Attorney, understanding the different types of Powers of Attorney can help you decide which one suits your specific needs.

Powers of Attorney can either be specific, restricting the attorney to a narrow scope of tasks, or general, allowing them to do nearly everything you could do.

A General Power of Attorney empowers someone to manage your property and/or affairs for a limited period. In other words, it’s a short-term delegation of authority.

Common use cases include going on an extended holiday or living abroad temporarily. Known also as an Ordinary Power of Attorney, this form is fully operational as soon as you sign it and doesn’t require registration.

If you need someone to act on your behalf because you’ve become mentally incapacitated—due to illness, an accident, or conditions like dementia—an Enduring Power of Attorney is the appropriate choice.

Unlike a General Power of Attorney, an EPA must be registered and comes into effect when you are no longer capable of managing your own affairs.

By understanding these distinctions, you can make a more informed choice tailored to your unique circumstances.

Think of an Enduring Power of Attorney as a safety net for adults of all ages. It’s not merely an “end-of-life” plan but a practical tool for life’s unexpected challenges.

There are many ways in which someone can lose their decision-making capacity and an EPA might be necessary. In Ireland, a high number of instances occur due to dementia, Alzheimer and strokes. According to the Alzheimer Society of Ireland, “it is estimated that there are 55,000 people living with dementia” in Ireland, with figures projected to rise above 150,000 by 2045.

Whether you’re entering retirement, running a business, or have a chronic illness, an EPA assures that your affairs are in competent hands.

An Enduring Power of Attorney is an incredibly potent legal document, granting extensive decision-making authority to your chosen attorney(s).

Therefore, it’s paramount to only appoint individuals you deeply trust. But trust isn’t the only line of defence; the system includes several built-in safeguards to minimize the risk of abuse.

Here are the key protective measures:

• Registration Requirement: Attorneys cannot exercise any authority unless the EPA is registered. During the registration process, specific parties have the legal right to object, adding a layer of scrutiny.

• Notification of Intent to Register: Before registration can proceed, those designated to act as your attorney must notify at least two individuals specified in the EPA document. This gives these individuals the opportunity to raise objections if they have concerns.

• Medical Certification: An EPA is only actionable with at least one doctor’s certificate confirming that you have become incapable of managing your own affairs. Moreover, when the EPA was initially drafted, a doctor would have also issued a certificate asserting that you, the donor, fully understood the implications of what you were doing, and were neither under undue influence nor defrauded.

• Donor Restrictions: As a donor, you have the option to specify conditions, restrictions, or limitations on what your attorney(s) can and cannot do on your behalf.

By understanding and leveraging these safeguards, you can further secure your interests and well-being.

After your Enduring Power of Attorney has been registered, you have the option to either revoke or modify it by notifying the Decision Support Services (DSS). However, this is only possible if the DSS has not already accepted a notification indicating your loss of mental capacity.

It’s worth noting that EPAs created prior to April 26, 2023, are not required to be registered. Should you wish to cancel your EPA, you can either physically destroy the document or supersede it with a new one.

To formally revoke or amend your EPA, your application must include the following:

• A declaration confirming your understanding of the consequences of your actions.

• A statement from a solicitor or barrister, corroborating that you fully grasp the implications of your request and are not acting under external pressure.

• If you’re making changes, a confirmation statement from the attorney acknowledging the amendments.

For EPAs generated before April 26, 2023, registration with the DSS is not obligatory, and revocation can only occur through the High Court.

Yes, an Enduring Power of Attorney isn’t just a document for potential worst-case scenarios; it’s a strategic component of a well-rounded life plan.

It gives you and your loved ones the peace of mind that you have a plan in place.

Without an EPA, the process of assigning someone to make decisions for you becomes more complicated and stressful.

If you do not have an EPA in place and lose mental capacity, your family will have to apply to the Court of Protection for a wardship order.

Applications for wardship are a court-based process. They can be both lengthy and expensive. It is much easier for everyone concerned if you have an EPA in place before any unfortunate situation arises.

Registration isn’t just filling out a form and calling it a day; it’s a multi-step, legally intricate process that requires meticulous attention to detail.

The Decision Support Services (DSS) provides an online portal where individuals can initiate the process of setting up an EPA. While the online process offers some convenience, there are alternative methods available for those who find it challenging.

For example, you can authorise a legal representative to interact with the DSS on your behalf. This enables you to proceed through a paper-based manual process. Once you complete the EPA in paper form, it can be submitted to the DSS for registration.

Please note that you’ll need to verify your identity with the DSS as part of this process.

Registration is a critical step that is triggered when you are losing or have lost mental capacity. It’s not just a procedural formality; it’s a legally mandated step to ensure that your attorney is properly empowered to act on your behalf.

The selection of your Enduring Power of Attorney is not a decision to take lightly. This person will hold significant influence over your life, especially during vulnerable moments.

Consider their reliability, understanding of your wishes, and their ability to make tough decisions under pressure.

Just as there are qualities to seek in an EPA, there are also legal restrictions on who can serve in this role. For example:

• Minors: Individuals under the age of 18 are ineligible.

• Bankruptcy Filers: Persons who are bankrupt cannot serve as your attorney.

• Fraud Convicts: If someone has been convicted of fraud, they are disqualified.

• Company Act Disqualifications: Individuals disqualified under the Companies Act are not eligible.

• Nursing Home Owners: If you reside in a nursing home, the owner—be it an individual or a trust corporation—cannot be your Enduring Power of Attorney.

By knowing who can and cannot be your attorney, you can make a more informed, legally sound decision.

There’s a common misconception that your EPA must be a close family member. While many people do opt for relatives—owing to established trust and familiarity—it’s not a legal requirement.

Friends, business associates, or professional fiduciary services can also serve as your EPA. The key factor is the level of trust and understanding between you and the individual or entity.

In complex situations, or to add an additional layer of security, a third-party nomination can serve as a ‘check’ on your primary EPA. This entity can be given specific oversight duties, adding another level of due diligence.

In addition to informing your chosen Attorneys about the responsibilities you’re entrusting to them, you’re also required to notify two other individuals. They are known as your ‘Notice Parties.’

The criteria for selecting your Notice Parties are as follows:

• If you are married or in a civil partnership and are cohabiting with your spouse or civil partner who is not serving as your Attorney, they must be one of the Notice Parties.

• Your child can also serve as a Notice Party.

• If you neither have a spouse, a civil partner, nor a child, you are obligated to select two relatives to act as your Notice Parties.

It’s important to note that these Notice Parties will be informed once more if there comes a time when the EPA needs to be activated.

Laws are not static; they evolve, and understanding the current legislative landscape is crucial. Several key pieces of legislation govern EPAs in Ireland.

Since 26 April 2023, the Assisted Decision-Making (Capacity) Act 2015 has been fully operational concerning Enduring Powers of Attorney. The 2015 Act overhauls the previous framework, introducing a new, supported decision-making framework in Ireland.

In short, it allows people to make legal agreements on how they can be supported to make decisions about their personal welfare, property and financial affairs. Applications for adults to become a Ward of Court can no longer be made.

A noteworthy change is the establishment of a new Government Agency—the Decision Support Services (DSS). This agency has assumed the responsibilities previously held by the Wards of Court in the realm of EPAs.

The DSS provides an online portal where individuals can initiate the process of setting up an EPA. While the online process offers convenience, it may not be suitable for everyone due to its requirement for a certain level of IT competency.

If you find the online process challenging, there are alternative methods available. For instance, you can authorize a legal representative to interact with the DSS on your behalf. This enables you to proceed through a paper-based manual process.

Once you complete the EPA in paper form, it can be submitted to the DSS for registration. Please note that you’ll need to verify your identity with the DSS as part of this process.

The 1996 Powers of Attorney Act serves as the cornerstone legislation governing Powers of Attorney in Ireland.

This Act experienced a significant update with the enactment of the 2011 Civil Law (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act. This amending Act introduced a new provision stating that an Enduring Power of Attorney will be nullified if the donor decides to revoke it before losing mental capacity.

It’s also important to note that the 1996 Powers of Attorney Act lays down the essential criteria that must be fulfilled for an Enduring Power of Attorney to be legally valid. This sets the foundational guidelines you’ll need to meet when establishing your EPA.

It’s essential to understand that the High Court plays a supervisory role when it comes to Enduring Powers of Attorney. Once an EPA is registered, its cancellation can only be approved by the High Court. This body also has the authority to provide directives concerning the management and disposal of the Donor’s assets.

Mental capacity is a complex and nuanced subject. Having a mental illness or going through a period of being unwell does not necessarily mean you’ve lost your mental capacity to make decisions for yourself.

In the context of an EPA, losing mental capacity is formally determined by a healthcare provider, typically a general practitioner or doctor.

In Ireland, the criteria to establish loss of mental capacity include:

• The ability to understand the information relevant to the decision in question

• The capability to retain that information long enough to arrive at a decision

• The aptitude to weigh that information during the decision-making process

• The competence to communicate the decision clearly

If you are concerned about your ability or that of a loved one to make reasoned decisions, it is strongly recommended that you seek medical consultation. If the doctor diagnoses a loss of mental capacity, it may be time to consider establishing or activating an Enduring Power of Attorney.

The moment incapacity is suspected or confirmed, it should be reported to activate the EPA. However, understand that ‘activation’ is not a simple switch; it is a process that involves legal verification and potential court involvement.

Understanding the parameters of the EPA can be likened to knowing the rules of a game—you play better when you know the boundaries. Your Enduring Power of Attorney’s role is not a blanket authority but is governed by the specific powers you grant in the legal document.

The scope of your Enduring Power of Attorney’s obligations depends on the level of decision-making authority you grant them. An EPA can extend to both your financial and personal life, so it’s critical to choose wisely.

Financial responsibilities generally encompass, but are not limited to:

• Management of your bank accounts

• Oversight of your savings accounts

• Engagement in investment activities, including buying and selling

• Payment of your ongoing bills

• Real estate transactions, such as buying or selling property

On the personal front, responsibilities can include but are not restricted to:

• Deciding where you should live

• Determining whom you should live with

• Managing social interactions, including who you should or should not see

• Recommending or overseeing training or rehabilitation programs

• Making decisions about your diet and dress

• Granting or denying permission to inspect your personal papers

• Handling matters related to housing, social welfare, and other benefits

It’s crucial to note that these duties need to align with your wishes and best interests, a key aspect to discuss with your attorney(s) when setting up your EPA.

Even with the best of intentions, mistakes can happen. Here are some pitfalls to avoid:

• Ambiguous Language: Lack of clarity can lead to disputes. Be as specific as possible.

• Failure to Update: Life changes, and so should your EPA. Regular reviews are essential.

• Not Discussing Duties: The appointed attorney should be aware of and comfortable with their roles and responsibilities.

The Decision Support Services (DSS) monitors the Enduring Power of Attorney.

If your attorney informs the DSS that you have lost your decision-making capacity, they must also submit a list of your assets. Each year, your attorney must submit a written report to the DSS setting out the costs, expenses and/or money paid. It’s crucial to maintain accounts and records of decisions.

If the DSS receive a complaint or wishes to check the activity of your attorney, they can send a visitor to speak with your attorney.

Here’s a quick breakdown of the various avenues that provide a safety net:

• Court Oversight: Courts may require periodic reporting and can review any actions undertaken by the attorney.

• Financial Audits: Depending on the scope of the EPA, external audits can be carried out to ensure financial propriety.

• Third-Party Reports: Notice parties, social workers, or healthcare providers can serve as additional sets of eyes.

As we’ve dived deep into the world of Enduring Power of Attorneys in Ireland, you likely have some questions. Here are some commonly asked queries and their answers:

In Ireland, the cost of an Enduring Power of Attorney can range from €500 to €1,000 in solicitor fees, with court registration costs added to the total. While costs can vary, it’s an investment in your peace of mind.

An Enduring Power of Attorney has no authority to change your will. Their jurisdiction ends with your life’s affairs and does not extend into posthumous matters.

The Enduring Power of Attorney loses its validity the moment the donor passes away. From that point, the executor named in your will takes over.

Preparing for life’s uncertainties, especially as you approach your later years, is a topic many shy away from. However, the importance of this planning cannot be overstated. Having an Enduring Power of Attorney can significantly ease the emotional and logistical burdens on your family and loved ones should the unforeseeable occur.

If you find yourself with lingering questions or need expert assistance in setting up an Enduring Power of Attorney, we’re here to help. With years of specialised experience in elderly care law, Kevin O’Higgins Solicitors is equipped to guide you through this crucial life-planning phase. Contact us today for peace of mind for tomorrow.