What does it mean for a person to have the capacity to make decisions?

A person having the capacity to make decisions fundamentally means that they can understand the nature and consequences of the choices they face and are able to communicate their decisions effectively. This involves cognitive and communicative abilities, allowing an individual to weigh options and appreciate how their decisions might impact themselves and others. Capacity is not merely about age, medical history, or the involvement of a legal representative; it hinges specifically on the individual's ability to engage with the process of decision-making in a meaningful way.

Understanding the nature and effect of decisions also means that the individual can appreciate relevant information and understand how it relates to their personal circumstances, which is crucial for informed and autonomous decision-making. In contrast, an individual who relies on a legal representative does not possess the capacity to make decisions independently, while being under 18 years of age or lacking medical history does not inherently indicate a person's ability to understand and make choices regarding their own lives.