What should private client solicitors bear in mind when advising clients on lasting power of attorney? In this week’s NLJ, Ann Stanyer, partner, Wedlake Bell, points out that this may be one of the most important documents a client will ever sign
For this reason, Stanyer advises that lawyers take their time to make sure they understand their client’s estate, needs, wishes and feelings.
She offers tips on what to ask the client, what safeguards to put in place, and how to ensure the designated attorney is a capable, responsible and trustworthy individual.
Stanyer writes: ‘If we do not advise our clients properly or if clients make poor choices as to their attorneys, their finances and health may be left unprotected. More seriously, they leave themselves open to losing their assets to an unscrupulous attorney.’
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