Robert C Matthews, Airdrie, AB

A will allows you to decide, among other things, who will be in charge of distributing your estate, who will be the guardian of your children if your spouse has predeceased you (or if you both die at the same time) at what age your children will get their share of your estate, and who will be the beneficiaries of your estate (subject to relevant legislation). An Enduring Power of Attorney is a document in which you appoint someone to make financial and business decisions and sign legal documents for you if you lose mental capacity, although in some cases it can take effect immediately upon signing. This is very helpful in dealing with banking, real estate matters, and Canada Revenue Agency, for example. Bear in mind that loss of capacity is not always a function of aging but could result from an accident or illness. This is a document in which you appoint someone (agent) to look after your personal and medical affairs, as opposed to financial affairs if you lose capacity.