Power of attorney: How to protect your wishes in an emergency!

Power of attorney: How to protect your wishes in an emergency!

In the Uckermark, there are questions about precautionary measures that are often put on the back burner. Although the daily farewell greeting before work may be routine, we are always accompanied by the uncertainty of what could happen in the event of sudden events such as accidents or heart attacks. Janet Tank, a dedicated local legal advocate, emphasizes the importance of health care powers of attorney and living wills. In Germany, around 1.3 million people are currently legally cared for, but only 40 percent have the relevant power of attorney - mostly people over 50 years of age. The reason for this? Many people put off dealing with these issues or rely on verbal agreements, which are of little help in an emergency.

Those involved in family matters, in particular, often feel that they do not have to deal with such arrangements. It is unavoidable: Without a valid power of attorney, a legal guardian will be appointed in the event of an accident. Married couples should not fall victim to this risk, even if spousal representation law has been reformed since January 1, 2023. Janet Tank and her colleagues therefore strongly recommend that such a power of attorney be drawn up to ensure that the wishes of the person concerned are heard in an emergency.

The role of the power of attorney

A power of attorney is a legal document that allows a person to act in the absence of the person granting the power of attorney. This is particularly important in times of illness, accident or old age, as these circumstances can limit the ability to make decisions. The authorized person has extensive rights in various areas: financial care, for example, regulates financial decisions, while health care includes medical treatments. The right to determine your place of residence and representation in court are also regulated here. Without this power of attorney, relatives cannot legally act on behalf of the person concerned, which can quickly lead to complicated legal situations like this Law Forum clarified.

From November 3rd to 7th, the consumer advice centers are organizing a focus week on the topic of “precaution” and educating the population. In this context, Janet Tank also offers free advice on precautionary measures to support citizens in the Uckermark. “It’s a good time to think about your own care,” she emphasizes.

Important aspects of precaution

When creating a power of attorney, there are a few important points to consider. The process must be done in writing - notarization is not absolutely necessary, but can be useful in many cases. It is also advisable to make several copies of the power of attorney, which should be kept safe. A special recommendation is to register in the central pension register of the Federal Chamber of Notaries in order to be found quickly in an emergency. The power of attorney can be revoked at any time as long as the person granting the power of attorney is legally competent, and any change should also be traceable using signatures.

In order to raise awareness among citizens in the Uckermark, it is crucial to proactively address the issue of precaution. Because as Janet Tank aptly puts it: “It’s not just about paper, it’s about security and your own well-being.”

Attend the events during the focus week and take the opportunity to clarify questions and clarify uncertainties. Because ultimately it can suddenly affect any of us. Being informed and prepared makes a big difference.