As our population live longer and with the increase in such conditions as dementia and Alzheimer, power of attorney is becoming more widely used. Bristol City Council and other local authorities are now providing considerable information on the subject but it is still not widely known what sensible steps can be taken by loved ones.
A power of attorney can cover both Health and Welfare & Property & Financial Affairs and it comes in 2 parts. The first part must be completed when the donor has mental capacity. If capacity is lost then the power of attorney cannot be made and loved ones will have to resort to the Court of Protection. This can be a very costly exercise and take several months even years to complete.
With a power of attorney document, those nominated to act as attorneys can make decisions on behalf of the donor and deal with day to day matters. Indeed only when capacity is lost can they make decisions about the donor’s Health & Welfare, up until that point the donor will make their own decisions.
Power of attorney will come to an end on the death of the donor and it would then be a matter for the Executors of the deceased’s estate to deal with any issues. It is now becoming as important as writing a Will and without power of attorney it can leave loved ones feeling helpless in trying to manage a person’s affairs in life.
If you would like more information or arrange a free consultation please contact Rose & Trust of Bristol on 0117 369 1969 or email us at info@rosetrust.co.uk.