Figures from The Office of the Public Guardian (OPG) show that investigations into attorneys and deputies appointed under powers of attorney have increased by around 40%: from 1,199 to 1,729 in the financial year 2017/2018.

In a report in The Law Society Gazette, Ruth Pyatt, director of Solicitors for the Elderly (SfE) said that

“The organisation had noted a rise in DIY and online submissions for LPAs, potentially leaving people at risk of attorneys making mistakes or, in the worst cases, abuse.”

Chris Shaw, an expert in dealing with powers of attorney at Graysons says:

“Using a legal expert to ensure that a power of attorney is professionally prepared, in good time, will help ensure that attorneys are chosen carefully and are fully aware of the rules and obligations that being an attorney entails.”