I have been told by your office that if I bring my elderly mother in to see you for a Power of Attorney, I will have to stay in the waiting room. I am not very happy about that. Can you tell me why I can’t come in?

There are a number of reasons. Firstly, because I have to determine whether she has capacity to give a Power of Attorney. In order for someone to give Power of Attorney, they must have a very high level of capacity as it is a very powerful document. Often, quite senior clients will look to their companion to help them answer questions if they are struggling with dementia. I also find that it is easier for clients to speak freely about their situation when we are alone. Most clients are quite appreciate that they have some privacy in discussing their affairs. And finally, it is a protection for the companion who accompanies the client against anyone assuming that they are putting any pressure on the client or that there was “undue influence” over the older person.