A recent BBC news item has highlighted the problems which can occur if a person loses capacity to deal with their own affairs without having put a Power of Attorney in place.
Granting a Power of Attorney allows you to appoint a trusted person (usually a family member or close friend) to manage your financial and personal affairs should you become unable to do so. That person can deal with your bank, the government, and other organisations on your behalf. They are also able to make decisions about your welfare if you are unable to do so. Without a Power of Attorney being in place your spouse, partner or other members of your family have no authority to act on your behalf or make decisions about your care.
It is important to consider appointing an Attorney whilst you are able to deal with your own affairs. If it is left until you are seriously unwell, you may not be able to grant a Power of Attorney. That could make matters more complex and costly as well as leaving you and your loved ones in a difficult situation. If you are in receipt of certain benefits, you can get help with the cost of registering the Power of Attorney.
Our Private Client Team at Clark Boyle have a wealth of experience relating to Powers of Attorney. We can advise you and help you put the necessary documentation in place. To discuss this matter confidentially, call the Private Client Team on 0141 227 2200 or use the contact button below.
To access the BBC article use this link – https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/cly62e1z3jzo
