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Information Seminar to Help Those Who Help Others

Posted: 21st October 2016

INFORMATION SEMINAR TO HELP THOSE WHO HELP OTHERS

Leading Scottish law firm Gillespie Macandrew is offering a free-of-charge seminar for people who have been appointed as an Attorney for a relative, friend or business partner and would like to know more about what the role entails.

Increasing numbers of people in Scotland are granting a  Power of Attorney (PoA) which gives a trusted person (or people) power to make decisions and act in matters of finance and personal welfare on behalf of another when that person is in some way unable to deal with matters themselves

In 2015, there was a near 35% rise in the number of under 65s registering a PoA compared with 2014, with dramatic rises in the number of over 50s and over 40s putting in place the assurance that someone they trust will look after their affairs if they become incapable.

In the 40-50 age bracket, the increase over the previous year was 31%; while those in the 50-65 age range, the jump in 2015 over 2014 was 41%.

Over the same two year period there was a 19% rise in POAs registered by the over 65s.

In many cases the PoA does not ever have to be used, but if it does the Attorney may have major decisions to make about someone’s health, welfare and/or their finances.

Often people who are appointed as Attorneys have questions about what they will be expected to do, and what they can do, should the need arise

Some of these questions include:

  • How do people prove they are an appointed Attorney if the time comes?
  • How does someone assume the duties and responsibilities?
  • What rights and responsibilities does an Attorney have?
  • How do they exercise these?
  • What are the rules and guidance in place for Attorneys?

Gillespie Macandrew is hosting the seminar on 9 November 2016 at the firm’s office in central Edinburgh for attorneys to prepare them for a time when they might have to act.

Participants can come along to meet the team of solicitors who specialise in advising on Powers of Attorney and how they work.

Elspeth Paget, Head of Private Client at Gillespie Macandrew, said:

“There is a misconception among many that a Power of Attorney is something that we will only need in later life or should we find ourselves faced with declining health. In reality, there has been a substantial increase in the number of Powers of Attorney registered in Scotland by those below the age of retirement, according to figures we have obtained from the Office of Public Guardian.

“We have organised the seminar in realisation that many people are not sure what being an Attorney means and what powers and duties people actually have. Our team can provide advice on this and those attending can ask questions in a friendly and informal atmosphere.”

The seminar will take place at 5.30 – 8 pm on Wednesday 9 November at Gillespie Macandrew, 5 Atholl Crescent, Edinburgh EH3 8EJ.  Numbers are limited so to reserve a place please contact sarah.millar-harker@gillespiemacandrew.co.uk or call 0131 225 1677.

 

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Business Comment is the Edinburgh Chamber of Commerce’s bi-monthly magazine. It provides insight on Edinburgh’s vibrant business community, with features on the city’s key sectors, interviews with leading figures and news on new business developments in the capital.
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