Power of attorney advice issued

People have been advised that they should not put off having a lasting power of attorney in place, as they could find that they have left it too late.

Legal executive Michelle Cruddass told the Independent that there are a number of moves that have to be carried out on the "lengthy" lasting power of attorney document, such as any restrictions and who should be informed of the application.

She said: "If they already have an illness which affects their mental capacity, people tend to reach a point where they simply can't manage to decide on those points without becoming confused."

Ms Cruddass pointed out that although people are aware of power of attorney and may have a loved one who has completed the process, they still leave it too late.

She pointed out that people could find themselves in a position where their health deteriorates quickly, leaving them in a situation where they cannot get lasting power of attorney arranged in a sufficiently speedy manner.

In addition, advice on the subject was issued by Alex Edmans, an expert form Saga, who said that an individual may want to give a number of people lasting power of attorney if they are not sure they can trust just one person.

Published by Hannah Carr