Powers of Attorney for Property and Finance: A User’s Guide

Over six million powers of attorney are now registered in England and Wales. With more people living to an older age that number is growing daily. But getting a power of attorney registered is the easy part - what do you do when you actually have to use the powers to manage the finances of someone else, whether they are a relative or friend?

Powers of Attorney for Property & Finance: A User’s Guide is the plain English guide which will help you manage your own situation more confidently. It is written by Ann Stanyer, a solicitor with nearly 40 years of experience in advising her own clients, and she has used that wisdom to set out clearly and concisely what your responsibilities are and how you should act to avoid isputes. It answers all the key questions you will have such as:

• when should you start using your power of attorney?
• what records do you need to keep?
• how can you work with the banks?
• what happens if there is a complaint against you?

It also provides invaluable guidance on some of the more complex aspects of acting as an attorney such as deciding on what gifts can be made and things to look out for if there are foreign assets or holiday homes to be managed.

Throughout the text, Ann uses case studies and practical examples to bring the process to life which makes the book the essential companion for everyone taking on this necessary but often daunting role.

Who Would Find The Book Useful?

• Individuals appointed as attorneys
• Those not yet appointed but need to know more about what’s involved
• Other professionals such as accountants and financial advisors who might advise agencies, particuarly giving advice to the elderly

The book is also fully up to date with the new Powers of Attorney Act which became law in July 2023.