Enduring Power of Attorney

My wife and I would like to have Enduring Power of Attorney documents set-up and notice there are a number of websites in Australia offering this service - surely a far cheaper method than going through a solicitor.

However, we also came across, what looks to be a “Do it yourself form” the Dept of Justice, Queensland has provided on its website. (http://www.justice.qld.gov.au/files/Guardianship/epashort.pdf)

Is this a free option? If so I assume we would be required to complete a separate form each and the only special requirements are that they be witnessed by a Justice of the Peace, and as we own our own home, we register the document(s) with the Land registry office.

Any opinions or comments?

Thanking you
R Lew

2 comments

Perhaps get in touch with legal Aid to make sure it is the right form etc.

They may even help with filling it in.

A good friend died last year and left family in total chaos.

he ASSUMED that the will of 20ys ago was still valid etc. The lawyer he was with left the company and there was no one to execute the will.



On top of that, while in the hospital - what was going to be 24hr visit ended up intensive care.

He casually mentioned not to worry his daughter meaning not to bother her, but they put it on the form. Doctors will not acknowledge her or her wishes for her father. She was in tears.

They wanted to amputate one leg and then talked about the other as well. He was 75. Can you imagine a 75yo man learning to live without both legs? Knowing him, never.

The surgeons behaved like a pack of ---- They were determined. Would not even consult his GP with whom he was for 20ys and who has known him personally.



Would any body here know whether you must have your wishes in writing and witnessed or is it enough to tell your family or give them a piece of paper with your wishes in case you are unable to make decisions re your health?

An enduring Power of Attorney should only ever be executed by a solicitor. Sure, it costs a usually hefty fee. But, if you choose to do it yourself, just one misplaced word could invalidate all that you intended. Leave the legalise, to the legal people. But, then again, if you're dead, does it really matter?

2 comments



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