MYTH

“I HAVE ALREADY NOMINATED A NEXT OF KIN, THEY CAN MAKE DECISIONS FOR ME IF I LOSE CAPACITY”

VS

FACT

The ability of a next of kin to make decisions on your behalf if you lose capacity can vary depending on the jurisdiction and specific circumstances. In England and Wales this is not a specific legal right unless the individual is appointed under a power of attorney.

Simply designating someone as your next of kin does not grant them legal authority to make decisions for you. This is a Myth.

  • Lasting Power of Attorney for Health and Welfare – This allows you to appoint somebody you know and trust to make decisions relating to your health and welfare in the event you lose capacity. 
  • Lasting Power of Attorney for Finance and Property – This allows you to appoint somebody you know and trust to make decisions relating to your financial affairs. This can be solely for in the event you lose capacity but can also be for times you have capacity but are unable to manage these yourself. 
  • Advance Decisions (Living Will) – This enables you to state in advance whether certain circumstances would lead you to refuse specific medical treatments

HOW CAN WR HELP?

Planning for the future is key to the advice and services we provide and Lasting Powers of Attorney are strongly recommended to all our clients.

Our lawyers are highly knowledgeable in this problematic area, and are able to provide cost-effective solutions to you.

WE'VE GOT YOUR BACK!

If you need assistance, more advice on the above or support with any other legal issue, We've Got Your Back

If you have an enquiry, Call us on 01254 67 22 22, email enquiries@watsonramsbottom.com, talk to us via live chat or complete our contact form and one of our experts will contact you.

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