Articles by ‘Trish Watkins’

The Office of the Public Guardian is dealing with an increasing number of Lasting Powers of Attorney applications for registration. Unfortunately, there will always be cases of misuse and abuse where trust is involved. Here are steps that can be taken to minimise the risk of misuse or abuse if you make a Lasting Power of Attorney.

This month saw a care home fraudster, David Barton, sentenced to 21 years in jail for conspiracy to defraud and for theft offences against elderly and vulnerable residents at his nursing home. Reports such as these highlight the possibility of fraud and theft against elderly and vulnerable people. We look at how making a Lasting Powers of Attorney (LPA) agreement can protect your finances and welfare, and the decisions made around them.

Recently within the press there have been concerns raised about the possible abuse of Lasting Powers of Attorney. These documents are incredibly important and really helpful if you or a loved one lose the ability to deal with your affairs. At RWK Goodman we prepare Lasting Powers of Attorney based on the needs and circumstances of the individual. We are able to include safeguards within the document to try to prevent any misuse of it and we can advise on what is appropriate for each client.

It only seems like five minutes ago we were celebrating Christmas and heralding the arrival of 2018. It is often around this time that best laid plans for New Year Resolutions start to unravel but sometimes decisions you make really do need to be seen through – especially when they are going to make life much easier for your loved ones and friends.