88 per cent of people in the North West are currently living with no control over important later-life decisions around their housing, assets, heath, and care, according to a new report by SFE (Solicitors for the Elderly), the national organisation representing legal professionals such as John Paul Dennis from Kirwans who specialises in helping people plan for later life.
The report reveals that whilst 31 per cent of people in the North West have a Will in place to manage their affairs after death, only six per cent have a Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA) in place to safeguard their wishes in the event they are no longer able to make decisions for themselves, due to accident or illness like dementia.
78 per cent want a family member or friend to make important decisions on their behalf, in the event of illness or an accident. However, few are aware that without an LPA in place, any individuals’ affairs, such as their end-of-life wishes and health treatments, can be left in the hands of third party solicitors, social workers, medical doctors, or the British courts.
Even the minority of people that have taken steps to plan ahead for later life may still be at risk, due to poor quality legal advice and invalid documents. 32 per cent of people with LPAs in place did not use experts or legal guidance, instead taking a gamble using online resources, non-legal advisers, or off-the-shelf kits.
Partner and Head of Private Client, John-Paul Dennis said: "We have been specialising in legal services for the elderly for many years and the lack of awareness of the critical need for people to have solid plans in place for the provision of a power of attorney is a key issue, both in the North West and beyond.
“As members of the prestigious SFE group, we’re continually looking to improve the knowledge and service provided including, Wills, Probate and Estate Administration, Powers of Attorney, Court of Protection and many other specialist areas.
“We hope that these stark figures will encourage people to take another look at the provision they are making for later life and highlight the importance of solid legal advice to ensure they had a good legal framework in place to ensure their wishes are followed when they are at their most vulnerable.”
With offices in Liverpool, Wirral and Southport, Kirwans provide a variety of specialist legal services. These memberships will provide clients with the assurance that Kirwans has wide ranging expertise in providing legal services for older people
Lakshmi Turner, Chief Executive of SFE, said: “Most people assume that if they suffer an illness or accident, their next of kin will be responsible for vital decisions. The reality is starkly different – loved ones may not be able to make a decision on your behalf unless you have an LPA in place.
An LPA is by far the most powerful and important legal document an individual can have. If you have children, own a home, or have views on your preferred health treatment, we urge you to go to an expert to get the right advice.”
SFE is an independent, national organisation of professionals, such as solicitors, barristers, and chartered legal executives, committed to providing the highest quality of legal advice for older and vulnerable people, their families and carers.
To download the report ‘Who will decide for you when you cant?’ go to: http://www.sfe.legal
Do you need legal assistance?
Simply complete the online enquiry form below or call us today.
Let Kirwans guide you on your legal journey.
Call today on 0151 608 9078 or email us at info@kirwanssolicitors.co.uk
