Brain injury
Planning for the future
When a loved one sustains a brain injury, the last thing on your mind might be legal and financial matters.
It can sometimes add more stress to an already difficult situation. Attention to these matters can make it easier for you and your family to cope with change. There is a large network of support services you can talk to about how they can assist you.
Making decisions
After a brain injury, a number of decisions require immediate attention. A family member may be required to make decisions on behalf of the person who has the brain injury.
There are decisions about treatment and there may be financial or legal issues that arise as a result of the injury, or there may be pressing issues that the person was addressing prior to their injury. Then, once home, there are many decisions we make daily in response to finances, work and other responsibilities.
If a decision maker is needed and a family member is not available, an independent guardian can be appointed.
An Enduring Power of Attorney
An Enduring Power of Attorney is a legal document in which a person appoints someone to make important financial and personal decisions on their behalf. If there is no formal order in place, the next of kin is legally allowed to consent to health care treatment.
The Office of the Public Advocate and the VictorianCivil Administrative Tribunal (VCAT) can assist you with legal, financial and administrative rights on behalf of the person you are caring for.
Contact
For more information on arranging powers of attorney or guardianship contact: