The law can appear very complex at times and we at Kerwoods ensure that advice is given in an understanding, helpful and sympathetic manner.

This area of law is currently experiencing fundamental change, with the new rules introduced by the Mental Capacity Act 2005. Therefore, it is important to you and your families that you can trust your chosen solicitor to be knowledgeable on how these changes affect them.

These areas of law are of particular importance are:

• Wills
• Powers of Attorney
• Court of Protection Receivership
• Residential Care
• Tax Planning

How can we help?
Kerwoods has specialist solicitors who have many years of experience in advising elderly clients on the above issues.

We are often able to arrange home or hospital visits where required and will assist in making the experience of dealing with legal matters as stress-free as possible.

Wills
Please click here to read our wills page, which explains why it is important that everyone, particularly elderly clients, consider the benefits of making a will.

Powers of Attorney
An Enduring Power of Attorney (EPA) is a document by which an individual hands over to his Attorney the power to decide what is done with his financial affairs and property.  The Attorney can use the power immediately if that is what the individual wishes. 

Lasting Powers of Attorney are due to replace EPAs in October 2007.  The two documents are similar but the procedures will be different. 
EPA’s entered into before October 2007 will still be valid after LPA’s come into existence.

Court of Protection Receivership
If a family member has become mentally unable to manage their affairs, but has not signed an Enduring Power of Attorney then it is important to apply to the Court of Protection to be appointed as their receiver. The Court of Protection will then authorise the Receiver to carry out various aspects of their affairs in order to protect the individual.

The Court of Protection are likely to require many details concerning the Patient’s and the Receiver’s circumstances; i.e. financial, medical and otherwise.

The whole process usually takes some months to complete, although the Court of Protection can make some restricted orders more quickly for certain urgent matters.

Residential Care
Elderly clients and their families may need advice on the financial and funding side of residential or nursing home accommodation.  This subject can sometimes raises complex issues of state benefits, funding, and contracts with a care or nursing home.

Tax Planning
Kerwoods have specialist solicitors who can advise on the many ways in which it is possible to save tax in a way which may benefit either yourself or your family.

Contact hannah@kerwoods.co.uk to arrange a consultation with a specialist solicitor.