In the UK power of attorney is a legal process that entitles a nominated third party to make decisions for you regarding your health and financial position. A lasting power of attorney is designed to safeguard individuals who lose mental capacity by delegating their care and financial affairs to someone whom they trust. But in some instances, this power can be abused.
When drafting a power of attorney, it is important to specify the conditions under which it will be enacted, as well as the specific responsibilities and constraints under which the nominated attorney must operate. In the UK power of attorney must be drafted by a legal professional such as powerofattorneyonline.co.uk/ who can guide you in writing a watertight legal document.
In what way can a power of attorney be abused?
The nominated attorneys are in a powerful position of trust, entitled to make decisions about an individual’s health care and having access to their finances and property. Should they become complacent or knowingly abuse this trust, they can be subject to legal ramifications.
Abuse of a power of attorney can take many forms, from misspending the individual’s money to failing to keep accurate accounts and using the individual’s money for their own benefit.
What to do if you suspect abuse
You should report any concerns that you may have to the Office of the Public Guardian, providing as much information as possible. They will investigate and take whatever action is necessary to safeguard the affected individual.
