When you’re advancing in years, you likely don’t see yourself as “elderly”. And it’s likely that you certainly don’t see yourself as “at-risk”. You’re still in good health, in full possession of your cognitive faculties and whether you’re still working part-time or enjoying your retirement, you’re still enjoying an active and fulfilling lifestyle. But the simple truth is that in your advanced years, your legal needs change. While you have a good few years of happy living left in you, your thoughts are likely to turn to your loved ones and what they will do when you are gone.
When it comes to protecting your estate and your family, you’ll need an experienced Will and Probate Solicitor who can protect your rights and interests. Someone who will treat you with the dignity and respect you deserve.
We put you first
Whether you’re reading this in your elder years, or you’re concerned about the interests and legal wellbeing of someone close to you, you understand the importance of a caring and respectful approach to elder law. At Curtis Whiteford Crocker Solicitors, we take great pride in assisting the elderly by providing comprehensive legal advice. When elderly clients are unwell or cognitively impaired by a condition like Alzheimer’s, we also assist those closest to them to make important decisions on their behalf.
Advice when you are unwell
If you are worried about your health, we recommend creating power of attorney for someone you trust like a partner, son or daughter, grandchild or close friend. Anyone over the age of 18 can be nominated for lasting power of attorney, and this person can help manage your affairs on your behalf if you become unable to manage them yourself.
If you’re looking after a parent or grandparent who is too impaired to give powers of attorney, we can assist in making applications to the court of protection for a deputyship. This works in much the same way to powers of attorney, except that actions are overseen by the office of the Public Guardian. This is an extra layer of protection to ensure that the deputy acts in their loved one’s best interests. The court of protection has full jurisdiction over “protected parties” who no longer have the capacity to make their own legal decisions.
Changing care needs
Even if you are in good health now, your needs can change quite quickly in your advanced years, and you may need additional care and support. This can be a very stressful and upsetting time for you and your family. Especially when external agencies like social workers and / or NHS staff become involved in the decision making process. We can help you and your loved ones to make your voice heard in these situations. We can attend best interest and hospital discharge meetings and advocate on your behalf to achieve the outcomes that matter to you.
Creating a Will
You’ve likely heard a lot of the horror stories about what happens to those who die intestate. Nobody likes coming to terms with their own mortality, but a Will can ensure that your estate is distributed in accordance with your wishes after your death.
A will can include everything from funeral clauses to appointing executors and even guardianship of any children you may have under the age of 18.
We offer a comprehensive approach to all legal matters to ensure that you and your family are well-protected.