A Power of Attorney is a legal document that allows someone to make decisions for you, or to act on your behalf, if you are no longer able.  Where a Power of Attorney is not in place, the Court of Protection can appoint an individual, known as a Deputy.

We would almost always recommend arranging a Power of Attorney as this ensures that a trusted individual or individuals will make decisions on your behalf, should the need arise. Most will nominate their children, a close friend or family member, or perhaps their solicitor.  Arranging a Power of Attorney is preferable to relying on a court appointed deputy, as the application to the court will inevitably result in delays, additional costs, as well as more onerous reporting requirements.

Even for individuals who are confident and experienced in running their own finances, acting as an attorney or deputy, on behalf of another, can feel like a great responsibility.   Making decisions in managing another person’s hard-earned savings and investments can be a stressful process, particularly when this may also coincide with a deterioration in that individual’s health.