Anticipating Ill-Health
We are frequently asked by our clients for advice about how best to give authority to their nearest and dearest to make decisions regarding their medication and health care (as opposed to their money and property) if their health should fail.
Put simply, there are two documents which can provide the appropriate authority.
- The Advance Decision (previously Living Will)
- £50 plus VAT
This is usually a very simple document designed to cover the situation where you are unexpectedly incapacitated, perhaps by way of a sudden stroke or accident. It provides guidance as to how and when you would wish medical care to be administered if you are unable to give authority yourself – for example, where you might be in a coma. It makes good sense to appoint one or more persons to have authority on your behalf in these circumstances. The document is straightforward and requires no registration at the Court. It makes sense to let your doctor know if you have made an Advance Directive and for a copy to be left with your doctor. In the event of your being incapacitated, your Advance Directive will allow your medical practitioner to rely upon the authority of the person or persons you appoint to guide them as to the type of medical care you require.
- The Lasting Power of Attorney for Health and Welfare
- £450 plus VAT plus £130 Court registration fee
This is a more fulsome document envisaging an extensive need for one or more persons to have authority with regard to your medical care when you have lost capacity. A typical example might be a diagnosis of Alzheimer’s or Parkinson’s Disease. The Lasting Power of Attorney should be registered at the Office of the Public Guardian.
What else can we offer?
- Will writing
- Lasting Powers of Attorney
- Administration of Estates and Trusts
- Tax Planning
- Receiverships under the Court of Protection
- Financial issues for the more mature client including care costs
- Charities
If you would like to know more, please contact Gary De’Ath (gd@gross.co.uk) Sarah Lee (sl@gross.co.uk) or Julie McDonald (jm@gross.co.uk) who will be pleased to provide you with a free 30 minute appointment to answer any questions you might have and explain things in more detail.
