Power of Attorney

There are times when it is necessary to take legal advice on some matters. The Citizens’ Advice Bureau offers free, confidential legal advice.

There may come a time in life when you are unable to make your own decisions, for many reasons, such as illness or accident, and need someone else that you trust to make them for you, whether they are decisions about your daily care or financial affairs. This is called Power of Attorney.

It is very hard to know when this might happen, as often the need becomes obvious when it is too late for you to make the choice yourself. However, you can make arrangements for Power of Attorney at any time, that will only come into effect if you lack the mental capacity to make your own decisions, or if you choose to relinquish your affairs to them.

There are strict rules and laws that apply to Power of Attorney, and the person you appoint must accept the role and understand their responsibilities.

The Public Guardian oversees all Power of Attorney applications, and protects people who lack mental capacity from being abused due to their vulnerability. For more information, see the Office of the Public Guardian.