One of the most difficult and stressful times is coping with a close relative who is suffering with a debilitating mental impairment such as dementia which, with an ever increasing elderly population, is becoming more commonplace.

For most people this difficult emotional situation is often made easier by people making provisions such as Enduring or Lasting Powers of Attorney before the permanent effects of a debilitating mental illness occur.

For various reasons some people are unable to enter into such an arrangement in good time so that their close relatives and carers are unsure as to how to proceed.

The answer for many is to approach the Court of Protection which will make a decision on behalf of the person who lacks capacity to decide for themselves. This may involve the appointment of a Deputy to take over the persons property and financial affairs or by allowing the sale of their property, while always being mindful of the best interests of the incapacitated person.

Our Private Client Service offers a wide range of assistance with Court of Protection cases including:

• Applications to appoint a Deputy;
• Statutory Wills;
• Replacement of Trustees;
• Contested LPA Registrations;
• Fast Track applications;
• Assisted Living Tenancy Approval Applications;
• Health and Welfare Applications; and
• Contested Court of Protection applications.

If you think you need some professional assistance with these or any other legal issues following from a mental incapacity or if you are not sure if the Court of Protection is the right course of action please contact Sunir on 01473 244 416 or at sunir.watts@harmonylaw.co.uk and we will be happy to help.