Enduring Powers of Attorney
An Enduring Power of Attorney (EPA) enables the donor to name one or more trusted relatives/close friends (or indeed a professional) to deal with their financial affairs should this be required in the future. At present, an EPA gives no authority over decisions relating to the personal care of the donor, but this is under review.
Most clients prefer to discuss the matter in detail with us and we can then prepare the EPA in the appropriate form and ensure that it is validly signed by the client (“the donor”) and subsequently countersigned by the named attorneys. An EPA can be prepared as a precaution and stored against unforeseen circumstances as well as the advancing years. The donor has peace of mind, knowing that his or her affairs will be managed properly and in the donor’s best interest.
We are happy to store completed EPAs (and indeed other documents such as wills and deeds) free of charge for our clients.
In the unfortunate event that a person is unable to make an EPA by reason of mental incapacity then his or her assets can only be dealt with by a receiver, appointed by the Court of Protection. A receiver is usually a close relative but the procedure for appointment is lengthy. Sisman Nichols is able to provide advice and assistance in dealing with an application.