Member Article

Yorkshire lawyer says Coronation Street storyline should act as a warning

A law expert from a West Yorkshire law firm is advising that a key Coronation Street storyline is flagging up an important legal lesson. John Howe of Pudsey-based John Howe & Co is highlighting a current storyline in the soap in which much loved character Audrey Roberts is set to become a victim of fraudulent Lasting Power of Attorney. Her desperate for cash son appears to be forging her signature on the document to enable him to take control of her money. A lasting Power of Attorney is a legal document which allows a person, known as the ‘donor’ to appoint one or more people, known as ‘attorney/s’, to help make decisions on their behalf. These decisions can range from washing and eating to managing bank accounts. A donor can choose to either have a Health and Welfare LPA or a Property and Financial Affairs LPA depending on the circumstances. In some cases, both types of LPAs are chosen. John Howe said: “The ongoing drama in Coronation Street proves that there needs to be a greater understanding of how a Legal Power of Attorney works and whether in fact it is for them”. “It’s important to note that the donor must be over 18 and have the mental capacity to make their own decisions.” There are certain hurdles that have to be overcome when applying for a Lasting Power of Attorney to try and prevent the circumstances as outlined in the Coronation Street Story and restrictions can be placed on any power given. “Anyone wishing to enter an LPA should instruct a specialist solicitor, who has experience of dealing with any disability that the donor may have and can protect the individual and ensure they are not under any duress.”

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by News Gathering .