Obtaining the Power of Attorney
It is prudent for people to grant powers of attorney so that affairs can continue to be managed in the event of serious illness without the need to apply to the Court for a guardianship appointment. The attorney can be a family member or friend or a professional.
The power of attorney can include authority to deal with financial matters and welfare matters although the welfare power can only be exercised if one is completely unable to make decisions relating to personal welfare oneself. These powers can be contained in one document or in separate documents.
If a power of attorney is intended to be used after the grantor of the document has become incapable of making decisions it is necessary for it to be registered with the Office of the Public Guardian. We advise that this registration is dealt with at the outset even although the document may not be used for many years or indeed may never be required.
- We can advise on the appropriate form for the document to take for your purposes and handle all the formalities
- We deal with the financial administration which a power of attorney requires including preparation of accounts
- Balfour & Manson Trustees which is a company administered by the firm can act as an attorney if wished
- We also advise in situations where difficulties have arisen in power of attorney administration
For more information on powers of attorney contact Ken Robertson or David Campbell.
