Are you worried about managing someone’s finances when they can no longer make decisions for themselves? Bethan is here to help you navigate the legal process of being officially appointed as a Deputy to make decisions on behalf of someone else, allowing you to take control once you are appointed as a Deputy.
Bethan Thomas is a dedicated professional specialising in Court of Protection matters, focussing on decisions surrounding property and financial affairs. Bethan has over 24 years’ experience providing legal advice about Wills, Trusts and Estates, expertly navigating the process of making applications to the Court of Protection for deputyships. This is when an individual no longer has the mental capacity to manage their financial affairs or property decisions, leading to appointing a trusted Deputy to act on their behalf and make decisions in those areas.
This crucial appointment often arises when individuals do not have an Enduring Power of Attorney (EPA) or Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA) in place.
Whether it is managing paying household bills, paying off debt or selling property, Bethan ensures the right process has been followed and the correct authority is in place. Every individual circumstance is different and Bethan is an expert at tailoring her advice and service to your individual circumstances.
In addition to deputyship applications, Bethan regularly handles:
- Applications to authorise gifts made by attorneys or deputies on behalf of someone who lacks mental capacity.
- Statutory Will applications for those unable to write or update a Will themselves.
- Trustee applications for property ownership arrangements which require Court intervention before a sale (under Sections 36 and 54 of the Trustee Act 1925).
As a legal expert within HM3 Legal Bethan collaborates closely with other colleagues including Ruth Marsh who leads the team supporting individuals with all their legal needs. In cases where a professional Deputy or Attorney is appointed, Ruth makes the decisions while Bethan manages the daily affairs on Ruth’s behalf.
Bethan also works alongside colleagues, who assist with Court of Protection work and probate matters. The team works very closely with local authorities which require a Deputy to be appointed for any individuals who do not have an Attorney or family representative in place.
If you need advice or support with a Court of Protection ordeputyship matter, Bethan is here to expertly guide you through the process, listening to your individual needs and circumstances.