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David Parfitt - Partner, Coles Miller

Growing dementia figures: thousands left vulnerable and unprotected22nd Mar 2013

by on 22nd Mar 2013

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David ParfittLegal “time bomb” on verge of explosion?

Figures released by the Alzheimer’s Society last week show that 820,000 now suffer with dementia, with this figure set to break 1 million within the next decade.

With so many of these people not having in place a Lasting Power of Attorney, their loved ones are faced with a Deputyship application to the Court of Protection.  This means extra legal costs, medical fees, court fees as well as additional delays and stress.  They are ultimately faced with more stringent supervision from the court.

Typically a Deputyship Application to the Court costs around £2.500 to £3,000 including all medical, legal and court fees.  This is approximately five times the amount to draft and register a Lasting Power of Attorney and takes twice as long to complete.

David Parfitt, Head of Wills and Probate Law at Coles Miller Solicitors, said: “It is not a difficult process to grant someone Lasting Power of Attorney, with the right legal help. However, so many people leave it until it is too late, especially for those who sadly end up suffering with dementia.”

Mr Parfitt continued: “Reports in the media have shown that the banks have often proven to be difficult to deal with at branch level in issues pertaining to powers of attorney. When it comes to dealing with Deputyships, experienced legal advice really is essential to make sure that each party is protected and not left vulnerable in any way.”

David Parfitt and his Wills and Probate law team colleagues would be pleased to discuss any queries on 01202 673011.



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This document is not intended to constitute and should not be used as a substitute for legal advice on any specific matter. No liability for the accuracy of the content of this document, or the consequences of relying on it, is assumed by the author. If you seek further information, please contact Managing Partner Neil Andrews at Coles Miller Solicitors LLP.