Who Needs Lasting Powers of Attorney? Anyone over 18…..

Who Needs Lasting Powers of Attorney?

Anyone over 18 who might have an accident or disabling illness. The story which follows is about a soldier, but the fact that he was a soldier is irrelevant as he was assaulted in a bar. he could just as easily have been crossing the road.

This is the story of a soldier who was injured at the age of 23, and the vastly expensive Court case mounted by his family to get what they considered suitable treatment.  They were opposed by expensive lawyers working for the Ministry of Defence and the Official Solicitor. Had the family been appointed under both types of Lasting Power of Attorney, the decision would have been theirs.  It is not as if the chap could not make his feelings known, just that the lawyers felt he was not making an informed decision and should not be allowed to decide himself. The Judge in effect has to decide for him at very considerable expense, and whilst judges may be very wise, most of us would rather have these decisions made by husbands, wives or parents who know us well. Another example follows.

Who Needs Lasting Powers of Attorney: “A Hailsham couple have shared their story about early on-set dementia. Colin Ward was a healthy 52-year-old when he proposed to his partner Jane. Less than 18 months after their wedding, the couple’s lives were turned upside down when Colin was given the diagnosis of vascular dementia – at just 56 years old. Colin’s health started deteriorating almost immediately after their wedding. In 11 months, his condition had declined to such an extent that he had lost his job as a taxi driver and was unable to walk unaided.”

Who Needs Lasting Powers of Attorney?

We have long recommended that everyone over 18 should have both types of Lasting Power of Attorney. It isn’t just dementia which can bring about a loss of mental capacity and so a loss of control over every aspect of life.  That is a pretty dire prospect.  A trip on the pavement. A car accident. A stray golf or cricket ball.  Any of these can mean a prolonged period where your life is controlled by the Court of Protection who may well delegate their authority to Social Service or a local solicitor rather than your family.  Your family will not understand the complexities or costs of being under the control of the Court of Authority.  They may not have the cash or just be too shocked and busy to even ask us for help (we have Court of Protection experts.)

Who Needs Lasting Powers of Attorney – everyone over 18.

There is no reliable or sound course of action other than to contact us to make Lasting Powers of Attorney as soon as possible.  With our optional Peace of Mind Service, we can help you to get your Legal Planning organised – and keep it that way.

So please use the contact form or give us a ring on 01323 741208, and we’ll help protect you, your family and perhaps your cash too!

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