Improvements in lifestyle and health care mean that we have a much higher life expectancy than previous generations.  Along with this, however, is a rise in age-related illnesses such as dementia and Alzheimer’s disease.  In Scotland, the Adults with Incapacity (Scotland) Act 2000 provides a range of options to address the problems of those who are incapacitated through illness, accident or indeed any other cause.  These options include:

• Power of attorney
• Guardianship
• Access to funds
• Intervention orders

A Power of Attorney allows you to decide who should have control of your affairs if you become ill or incapacitated.  Otherwise, your relatives may need to petition the court to be appointed your guardian or for an order to allow them to look after your affairs.

If we can be of assistance in relation to any of these matters, please contact us.  We will be happy to have an initial meeting with you free of charge to advise you on your options and on what is involved.