Beyond Powers of Attorney: Deputy Orders
Adults who have lost the capacity to make their own decisions are extremely vulnerable. They may need to have someone appointed to act on their behalf.
At Rollingsons Solicitors in London, we can apply to the Court of Protection to have you appointed as a deputy for another person. A deputy is a person who, with permission from the court, is empowered to act on an incapacitated person's behalf with regard to his or her financial affairs and/or personal welfare.
Who Can Serve as a Deputy?
A deputy may be a family member, friend or a professional. The deputy acts under the court's specifications and guidance to ensure that a person's affairs are properly managed.
If you need to take swift action to protect another's physical or financial well-being, we can quickly seek deputy orders from the Court of Protection that will give you the authority to make necessary decisions.
We will explain the steps in the process and the expectations and responsibilities of a deputy under the Mental Capacity Act of 2005. These include:
- Make decisions in the person's best interests
- Make only those decisions authorised by the court order
- Have regard to all relevant guidance in the Act's code of practice
- Apply a high standard of care when making decisions
Support and Advice for Deputies
We are also available to advise you on complex decisions you may need to make on behalf of the person for whom you serve as deputy. When those decisions involve finance, property, serious medical treatment, social care or personal welfare, we will advise you or refer you to another professional as appropriate.
There is no fee to discuss your legal issue with one of our firm's experienced UK solicitors. To arrange your free initial consultation, please call 080 8159 5251 or contact Neil Acheson-Gray, Head of the Department, electronically.
