Why you might need a Power of Attorney

A Law Society of Scotland video provides an explanation of the importance and benefits of creating a power of attorney with the help of a Scottish solicitor.

If you or a loved one want to give someone you trust permission to make decisions about your money and property (or health and personal welfare), a solicitor can help you to create a power of attorney.

A power of attorney is a document which allows you to nominate someone else to take care of your affairs in the event that you are unable to do so yourself.

There are 2 types of power of attorney.

The first kind is called a “continuing” power of attorney. It permits the nominated person to take care of your money and property.

The second type is a “welfare” power of attorney. It covers matters related to your health and personal welfare.

Why should you consider having a power of attorney?

It’s something we should all consider because it provides real peace of mind in a variety of situations.

Here are some examples:

• Where an elderly relative is becoming increasingly dependent on their family;
• Where a person has had an accident which affects their capacity to handle their own affairs; or
• Diagnosis with an illness which leaves you unable to make decisions for yourself.

None of these situations is pleasant to think about.

However, drawing up a power of attorney with assistance from a solicitor will provide you with reassurance that your possessions and well-being will be safely covered, whatever happens.

You can find out details of a solicitor who is local to you and can help you grant power of attorney by visiting the Find a Solicitor page of the Law Society of Scotland website.

A local solicitor is best in this situation and they will be able to explain to you, on a without-obligation basis, the process and timescale – and any costs involved. Most solicitors will offer the possibility of a home visit, if necessary.

View the video

How we can help

For further information about making a power of attorney, contact us on 01343 544077 or send us a Free Online Enquiry.

Further reading

The following links are to pages and articles on this website which deal with powers of attorney, giving slightly different angles on why you might need a power of attorney:

• Why every adult should have a power of attorney.
• Who should you appoint, if granting power of attorney?
• Grigor & Young Services page on Powers of Attorney.