​The most important decision you will make when preparing a power of attorney is who to appoint as your attorney.

4 tips for choosing an attorney

1. Choose someone you know well

They should be someone who you’re reasonably sure will carry out your wishes and manage your affairs properly. A family member or close friend may be a good choice because of your close connection with them.

2. Make sure they meet the requirements

The person you choose to hold a power of attorney for personal care must be at least age 16 years old. You cannot appoint anyone you pay for your health care, including therapy, home care, or for your living arrangements (for example, your landlord), unless they are a spouse or relative. The person you choose to hold a continuing power of attorney for property can be anyone age 18 or older.

3. Consider appointing more than one attorney

It may be appropriate to appoint joint attorneys, particularly if you are choosing between your children and the choice is likely to be contentious. They can all make decisions jointly on your behalf, or you can give them specific roles. For example, for a power of attorney for personal care, one person could make health-care decisions and another might look after living arrangements for you.

4. Appoint a backup

You can have one primary person and appoint others as backups if your first choice is unavailable or unable to act on your behalf.