Imagine this: A loved one suffers a stroke, loses mental capacity, or faces a long-term illness. Who will manage their finances? Make medical decisions? Without legal authority, even close family members can’t step in. That’s where a Power of Attorney (PoA) becomes essential—especially for families in East Kilbride, Glasgow, and across Scotland.
At Prestige Wills & Trusts Ltd, we help families prepare for the unexpected. With decades of estate planning experience, we simplify the process of creating and registering a Power of Attorney in line with Scottish law—ensuring your loved ones are protected and your wishes are honoured.
What Is a Power of Attorney in the UK?
A Power of Attorney (PoA) is a legal document that gives someone (called an attorney) the power to act on your behalf if you become unable to make decisions. In Scotland, this could include decisions about your finances, property, health, or welfare.
Types of Power of Attorney in Scotland:
- Continuing Power of Attorney – Covers financial and property matters, even after you lose capacity.
- Welfare Power of Attorney – Covers health and personal care decisions but only takes effect when you’re mentally incapable.
- Combined Power of Attorney – Grants both financial and welfare powers.
Why Is a Power of Attorney So Important?
Without a PoA in place, families may need to go through the Court of Protection, a costly and time-consuming process, to gain control over their loved one’s affairs.
Here’s why a PoA is critical:
- Avoids family disputes and sibling conflict
- Prevents financial abuse
- Gives clear authority to act during illness or incapacity
- Ensures decisions are made in line with your values
Even financial expert Martin Lewis strongly recommends arranging a Power of Attorney early, especially for anyone aged 50+.
Who Should You Appoint as Your Attorney?
Your attorney must be someone you trust—often a spouse, adult child, or friend. You can appoint more than one attorney and specify whether they must act jointly or independently.
Your chosen attorney must:
- Be over 16
- Have mental capacity
- Agree to act on your behalf
- Not be bankrupt (for financial PoA)
How to Set Up a Power of Attorney in Scotland
Setting up a Power of Attorney in Scotland involves these key steps:
- Speak to a Specialist: At Prestige Wills & Trusts Ltd, we’ll walk you through the options and draft the correct document for your needs.
- Get It Signed and Witnessed: The document must be signed in the presence of a solicitor or doctor who confirms you understand the implications.
- Register with the Office of the Public Guardian (Scotland): A PoA is only valid once registered. We handle this process on your behalf.
Book a FREE Appointment with Prestige Wills & Trusts Ltd | Powers of Attorney East Kilbride, Glasgow
How Much Does a Power of Attorney Cost in the UK?
Costs vary, but at Prestige Wills & Trusts Ltd, we offer affordable, fixed-fee PoA services for individuals and couples.
- PoA Scotland Cost (2025): Around £96 registration fee per document
- Our Professional Fee: Competitive pricing with no hidden costs
If you’re searching for “how much do power of attorney cost” or “power of attorney cost Martin Lewis” — know that with us, you get trusted local expertise at a price you can afford.
When Does Power of Attorney Start and End?
- A Continuing PoA can start immediately or upon loss of capacity.
- A Welfare PoA only starts when capacity is lost.
- A PoA ends when revoked, the donor dies, or if the attorney becomes incapable.
Can a Power of Attorney Be Revoked?
Yes. As long as you have capacity, you can revoke or change your PoA at any time. You must do so in writing and notify the Office of the Public Guardian.
What Happens After Death?
Many people ask, “Does Power of Attorney expire?”
Yes. A Power of Attorney automatically ends when the donor dies. After that, control passes to the executor named in the Will. That’s why PoA and a valid Will should always go hand-in-hand.
FAQs About Power of Attorney in the UK
Who can sign a Power of Attorney?
You (the donor), the attorney(s), and a certifier like a solicitor or doctor.
Can power of attorney sell property?
Yes, if it’s a Continuing PoA and the document allows it.
Can a power of attorney change a Will in the UK?
No. PoA does not grant the right to alter someone’s Will.
Can power of attorney stop visitors in the UK?
If they have welfare powers and you lack capacity, yes—but only in your best interests.
What is a power of attorney used for?
Managing finances, making health decisions, accessing bank accounts, handling bills, and more.
Trusted Local Experts in Power of Attorney – East Kilbride & Beyond
At Prestige Wills & Trusts Ltd, we assist clients throughout:
East Kilbride, Glasgow, Newton Mearns, Hamilton, Paisley, Livingston, Cumbernauld, Kilmarnock, Coatbridge, Airdrie, Falkirk, Motherwell, Rutherglen, Cambuslang, Wishaw, Bearsden, Bathgate, Giffnock, and Bellshill.
We are known for:
- Personalised service
- Friendly expert advice
- Transparent pricing
- Home and virtual visits available
Ready to Protect Your Future?
Don’t wait until it’s too late. Setting up a Power of Attorney is one of the most important legal steps you can take for yourself and your family.
📍 Visit Us: 103, Strathmore House, East Kilbride, Glasgow G74 1LF
📞 Call: +44 1355 209333
🌐 Website: https://prestigewillsandtrusts.co.uk/
✉️ Email: info@prestigewillsandtrusts.co.uk
Let Prestige Wills & Trusts Ltd guide you through the process with confidence and compassion.