Wills + Probate: Case Studies for Lasting Powers of Attorney and General Affairs Management

Did you know that as well as helping clients with the preparation of Lasting Powers of Attorney (LPA’s), we also assist clients and their Attorneys in managing their affairs once the LPA has been finalised. Our friendly and approachable team provides a bespoke service to meet the specific needs and circumstances of each client and their Attorneys.

Case Study 1

Following the passing of her husband, our client, Mrs R, sought the Firm’s expertise to manage the administration of the estate. At that time, we also assisted Mrs R in reviewing and updating her Will and completing Lasting Powers of Attorney.

Sometime later, as her health needs increased, Mrs R reached out to us again. Mrs R required our help in finding a suitable care home and co-ordinating with the Local Authority. Thanks to the existing Power of Attorney, we were able to act swiftly. We lodged the Power of Attorney with the relevant institutions and provided comprehensive support to both the client and her Attorneys.

We continue to meet with Mrs R on a regular basis, offering advice and assistance with her daily affairs and assisting her Attorneys with this process.

Case Study 2

We were approached by the family of our client, Mr J, as Mr J was experiencing difficulties in managing his affairs and the family were concerned about Mr J’s capacity to do so. After a brief hospital stay, Mr J had recently moved to a local care home. Fortunately, Mr J had completed a Power of Attorney with Thatcher + Hallam several years ago. This allowed us to promptly locate and advise the appointed Attorneys. Thereafter, we provided advice as to capacity assessments and guidance on best interest decisions, from both a practical prospective and in accordance with the Mental Health Act 2005. Throughout this process, we maintained close communication with the family, offering support and assistance as needed.

We now work closely with Mr J’s Attorneys and assist with the day-to-day management of Mr J’s financial affairs.

Case Study 3

Our client, Miss K, was in the process of moving to a local care home and reached out to us to review her Will and set up Lasting Powers of Attorney. With no immediate family nearby, Miss K wanted to appoint two partners in the Firm as her Attorneys. This decision brought her considerable peace of mind, as it ensured that professional attorneys would handle her affairs in her best interest, if she ever became unable to do so.

Following regular meetings with Miss K at the care home and per her instructions, we facilitated the clearance of her property, obtained recommendations for marketing and eventual sale via a local estate agent. Thereafter, we were able to assist with obtaining suitable investment advice from an independent financial advisor, which further reinforced Miss K’s confidence and sense of security. Miss K’s Attorneys were able to assist with signing documentation on Miss K’s behalf, per her instructions, this was extremely valuable from a practical perspective.

We continue to assist with the management of Miss K’s affairs and meet with Miss K on a regular basis.

Over the years, we have built strong working relationships with several organisations. As a result, we have established a tested network of experts we can call upon to assist, including care agencies, estate agents, surveyors, building contractors, insurance brokers, property maintenance, accountants, financial advisors, and many more.

Our services to clients and their Attorney(s)

Our services are designed to cater to the unique needs and circumstances of each client and their Attorney(s). Below are examples of just some of the tasks we frequently assist with:

• Co-ordination with Local Authorities: Transition to care homes and manage financial assessment paperwork.
• Attendance Allowance Applications: Complete applications and liaise with the DWP.
• Power of Attorney Implementation: Lodge and complete documents with banks, investment organisations, utility companies, etc.
• Financial Management: Set up direct debits, manage mail, handle invoice payments, and maintain financial records.
• Property Management: obtain instructions from the client/Attorney regarding property clearance and assist with marketing recommendations, secure home insurance, ensure compliance with insurance conditions by regularly visiting the unoccupied property.
• Property Maintenance: Addressing issues such as water leaks, gardening, boiler repairs, and general maintenance by liaising with appropriate contractors.
• Estate Agent Liaison: Main point of contact for Estate Agent, coordinating with client and their Attorneys, overseeing the property sale in collaboration with our Property Department.
• Financial Advisory Support: Liaising with the client/Attorneys and their Financial Advisor to assist with paperwork and financial assessments.
• Income Tax Reviews/Documentation: We work with the client’s Tax Advisor to gather necessary documentation for tax returns, assisting with related requirements.
• Medical and Dental Appointments: Arrange appointments and transportation.
• Regular Client Visits: Discuss affairs and assist with shopping and other requests.

At Thatcher + Hallam we have an experienced and friendly team and pride ourselves on offering an empathetic and personal approach. Our goal is to provide comprehensive support tailored to each client’s specific needs.

For further information or to arrange an appointment please contact Gemma Norris on 01761 414 646, email us on enquiries@th-law.co.uk or contact us through our website.