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On 29th July 2018, the Supreme Court ruled that judges will no longer need to be consulted when families and doctors agree to remove any life-supporting treatment of patients in a persistent vegetative state.
Up until this point, families and doctors were required to seek permission from the courts - often a long-winded and costly process.
Understandably this is a decision that divides opinion. While some people consider this to be a humane and positive decision that empowers families to make the correct decision based on the wishes of their loved ones, others believe that the decision removes a vital layer of protection from the most vulnerable of people.
Taking into consideration the Court’s ruling, it is vital that we make our wishes regarding life-sustaining treatment as transparent as possible, despite how uncomfortable a conversation it may be.
Welfare Powers of Attorney (WPAs) enable you to appoint somebody to make decisions on your behalf regarding your personal welfare, including medical care, if you lose the mental capacity to make such a decision yourself, helping to deliver clarity at a difficult time.
It is essential that the powers you wish to give to your attorney, such as what medical treatment you should receive, or decisions regarding life-sustaining treatment, are explicitly specified, well explained and not open to interpretation.
There's a lot to think about when arranging a Power of Attorney, and that is why it is crucial to get expert legal advice from a specialist solicitor. At Claphams, we aim to make the process straightforward and effective. We’ll talk you through all the points you should consider, provide reliable advice for your situation and answer any questions you have fully and clearly. Do not delay, contact one of our Power of Attorney lawyers today.
