How to apply for Power of Attorney?

Philippa36

My ex husband was viciously assaulted 2 weeks ago and has since been in ICU.

My ex SIL wants to apply for power of attorney and asked my son if he was ok with her doing this. So far, she's told the police to contact her (although they took DS & DD's contact details too) and has mainly dealt with the hospital (although they again have everyone's contact details). We haven't seen SIL for some years previous to this.

DS is very unhappy with the situation but isn't sure whether he wants to take on the responsibility himself - he's 20. However, he does want to be involved.

Is it possible for him to apply for joint power of attorney? I've read up on the HM Courts website several times, but it all seems so complex.

Has anyone else been in this situation?

RAS

Hi

I assume ex-SIL is the ex's SIL?

Unless your ex already has an EPA or LPA documented and signed, no-one can now arrange to become his attorney.

You need to read here http://www.publicguardian.gov.uk/

Your son or SIL will have to apply to become deputies. When we arranged an EPA, two people were appointed with the right to make smal payments/decisions on their own but they had to work jointly on major expenses and decisions. this means that if one is on holiday or falls ill, the other can keep things ticking over.

Philippa36

Sorry, she is my ex SIL, my exes sister.

Thats really what I wanted to know. We don't know, as yet, the longterm affect on his mental capacity. At the moment, its really just a case of making sure his bills are paid. He was living alone.

RAS

I would suggest ringing the PG office tomorrow.

Also ask to speak to the hospital's welfare officer who will have experience of the issues and may be able to help.

Philippa36

Thanks very much, you've been very helpful. I didn't think of contacting the hospital for advice, but they're an obvious choice.

Thanks again.