Witness Restrictions
The witness must not be:
❌ The person signing for the Principal (if applicable);
❌ An Attorney of the Principal;
❌ A current paid carer or health-care provider for the Principal; or
❌ A relation of the Principal or of the Principal’s Attorney/s.
Witness Requirements
The Enduring Document must be witnessed by one of the following:
⚖️ Justice of the Peace;
⚖️ Commissioner for Declarations;
⚖️ Lawyer; or
⚖️ Notary Public.
Guidelines for Witnessing Enduring Documents
Witnesses must satisfy themselves that the Principal understands the nature and effect of:
✅ The document they are signing
✅ The delegation of their decision making powers and directions given about future health care.
When taking instructions, witnesses should:
✅ Ask open-ended questions
✅ Take notes, detailing their interview with the Principal
✅ Refer the Principal to a health care professional if you have doubts about their capacity to understand the document.
Do not witness an enduring document if you have concerns that the Principal:
❌ Lacks Capacity to understand what they are signing; or
❌ Is being Unduly Influenced by another person to sign the document.
For more information please refer to these guidelines published by the Office of the Public Guardian.
Credits:
This FAQ was written by James D. Ford GAICD | Principal Solicitor, Blue Ocean Law Group℠.
Important Notice:
This FAQ is intended for general interest + information only.
It is not legal advice, nor should it be relied upon or used as such.
We recommend you always consult a lawyer for legal advice specifically tailored to your needs & circumstances.