Lasting Powers of Attorney (LPAs) are documents which can be prepared to legally appoint a person or persons to manage the finances and make decisions for someone who is unable to do so for themselves. Preparing an LPA while fit and well enables a person to choose who would act as their attorney or attorneys. Where somebody lacks capacity and they do not have an LPA in place already then anybody close to them can apply to the Court of Protection for authority to act on their behalf as their Deputy.

Appointing a Professional

In both of these situations it is usual for close family members or friends to act as Attorney or Deputy. However, there are situations where there is no one who is able to take on this role as it can be an onerous task to manage another person’s finances. In these instances, a professional Attorney or Deputy can be appointed in order to manage the person’s finances on their behalf.

Role of the Attorneys/ Deputies

At Jennifer Melly Law we act as attorney or deputy for a number of clients which means we fully manage their finances for them. It is often the case that we begin to act where a person becomes unwell and begins to need care either at home or in a care home setting. In these situations, we are as any attorney or deputy would be called on to take over and manage their bank accounts, arrange to pay for their care and for day to day expenses such as household bills and shopping and dealing with pensions and claiming any benefits to which they may be entitled to.

In order to carry out this role we often form close relationships with our clients and get to know them and their needs so that we can better assist them in our role as Attorney or Deputy. We may need to be involved in arranging and paying for their care, assisting them with shopping and washing clothes for periods while in hospital and advising them on a wide range of issues which may affect them. For those in their own home then we may be called upon to arrange and coordinate any repairs and renovations required to their properties.

Getting Advice

If you would like advice on any of the above matters then please contact us for further information. Our offices are based in Neath and Cardiff and we also offer home visits for those who are unable to come in to see us. Our staff are friendly and approachable and aim to put our clients at ease whilst providing a professional and expert service.