TAS Mental Health Carer - Legally Open Mail?

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Melistos

Member
27 May 2015
1
0
1
Hi, if you are someone's carer because they have a mental health issue, can you legally open their mail because they would prefer to remain oblivious to the bills or news in their mail, and in doing so, getting further and further behind in bills and missing important letters such as fines, resulting in further detriment to their mental health?
 

Sarah J

Well-Known Member
16 July 2014
1,314
251
2,389
Melbourne, Victoria
Hi Melistos,

This is a difficult area and I'm not clear on the position either.

Do you have a power of attorney from them? If not, it may be best to get them to sign one, even just a limited one that gives you specific scope such as dealing with their debts and seeking refinancing on their behalf.