Powers of Attorney & Court of Protection

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Powers of Attorney & Court of Protection

We understand the importance of planning for your future.

If you are concerned about losing the ability to manage your affairs in the future, or a family member is no longer able to manage their own affairs, Butcher & Barlow work across the North West and are here to provide you with expert advice tailored to your particular circumstances.

Do not assume that your spouse or civil partner is able to deal with your banks and pensions, or make decisions about your healthcare, without formal authority. This is not the case, and our Private Client Team is here to ensure that you have the knowledge and understanding to secure the best possible approach to safeguarding your family’s future.

What are Powers of Attorney?

At Butcher & Barlow, we always try to speak your language but occasionally we have to use legal terms. Our Glossary will help you understand those phrases that may seem a little alien to you.

Our team are on hand to support you and your family when you need us. If you would like to arrange an appointment to discuss your situation, whether that be by video, telephone or in-person please get in touch with any member of our team. Alternatively, complete our Enquiry form and we will call you back as soon as possible.

How can we help you?

Lasting Powers of Attorney (LPA):

In order to enter into a LPA, and grant someone the authority to make decisions about your financial affairs and health and welfare, it is essential that you are able to understand its implications. It is therefore crucial that the LPA is made whilst you are of sound mind and so it is never too early to consider putting one in place.

Court of Protection Applications:

If an individual loses capacity it is necessary for somebody to be appointed to look after their affairs in relation to both finances and welfare. If that individual does not have a Lasting Power of Attorney in place, someone must step forward to offer their services to be appointed by the Court. In this situation, they are known as a Deputy. This is a tricky and laborious process and expert guidance is essential.

Enduring Powers of Attorney (EPA’s):

EPA’s created prior to October 2007 remain effective and valid, but for an Attorney to act under them, they must be registered with the Office of the Public Guardian if the donor is losing or has lost mental capacity. Our team can advise and guide on both the registration process and the rules which apply to the Attorney.

Ordinary Powers of Attorney:

If you have mental capacity but need someone to temporarily look after your financial affairs, for example if you are on holiday or in hospital, or simply cannot get out, this type of Power of Attorney may be suitable for you. Our team can advise you on its suitability and ensure that the document is drafted in such a way as to protect you and your money from misuse.

Helpful Downloads

Powers of Attorney and Court of Protection

Powers of Attorney and Court of Protection

Lasting Powers of Attorney for Business Owners

Download

Powers of Attorney and Court of Protection

A Guide to Lasting Powers of Attorney

Download

Get in touch now to see how we can help.

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Chris Hopkins

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Philip Jennings

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Tim Bailey

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Powers of Attorney & Court of Protection Team

Our people are what makes Butcher & Barlow what it is. Each one of our team is committed to building a solid, long-lasting working relationship with our clients across Bury, Manchester and Cheshire.

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Powers of Attorney & Court of Protection Insights

7th Jan 2026
By Benjamin Davenport-Lawton,

What our clients say about our Powers of Attorney & Court of Protection Service

Very satisfied with Emily Cliffe my Solicitor.

Sophie Nicholson as lead Solicitor and Sharon Steele as her legal secretary provided a service concerning a family matter that was both outstanding and thoroughly professional. I was kept informed of any progress that was made on a regular basis and any queries I may have had where dealt with promptly. I would recommend Butcher & Barlow and both Sophie and Sharon to anyone requiring a first class legal service.

Outstanding service! Sophie Nicholson provided outstanding service in obtaining Letters of Administration in connection with my late wife’s assets in England and Wales. Professional, courteous, friendly and always very timely in her responses, I cannot speak highly enough of her client care and professional service!

I highly recommend Sam Dale to everyone. Sam has recently drawn up my Will. He was friendly, courteous and professional throughout our meetings. By communicating every detail in down to earth language, he put me at ease throughout the complete process.

Emily Cliffe made the preparation of our Wills & POAs easy to negotiate. She gave us sound advice, explained the process in simple terms avoiding pitfalls and kept us informed all the way. We would highly recommend Emily for her efficiency, professionalism, friendly and helpful manner.

Sophie was very considerate, patient and helpful.

From our initial phone enquiry, consultation and throughout the whole experience, we found Butcher & Barlow extremely helpful, friendly, professional and thorough with every aspect of a difficult situation. A BIG thank you to Sophie for everything. It is grately appreciated.

I had to see Mr Sam Dale for 2 legal matters. He very quickly got to the salient points and advised me accordingly. He was extremely friendly and I felt comforted because I had been worried about the legal aspects of the cases. If I ever need a Lawyer again, I wouldn't hesitate to use Butcher & Barlow.

The process of producing our Wills was handles in a clear, professional and efficient manner. We appreciated the way legal aspects were explained and easy to understand. Helen Chadderton dealt with the preparation of our Wills and her attention to detail and approachable manner made the whole process feel straightforward and reassuring. We would have no hesitation in recommending Helen.

I was really impressed with the service I received from Butcher & Barlow and would definitely recommend them. Emily Cliffe was extremely helpful and patient, taking the time to explain everything clearly in a way I could understand. She was very friendly and made me feel completely at ease throughout the process.