Complaints of financial misconduct against attorneys acting under a Lasting Power of Attorney rose to 11,910 in the year ending March 2026, up from 10,240 the previous year and 9,538 the year before, according to Ministry of Justice data obtained by TWM Solicitors. Despite the surge, only 263 attorneys had their authority revoked or partially revoked by the Court of Protection during the same period. Stuart Downey, partner and head of will, trust and estate disputes at TWM Solicitors, said the figures highlight the potential for financial abuse where an attorney misuses authority given under an LPA.
He stressed the need for confidence in safeguards when such authority is abused, particularly where donors are elderly or vulnerable. An LPA allows someone to appoint a trusted person to make decisions on their behalf if they lose mental capacity, covering health and welfare or property and financial affairs. Roles may include managing bank accounts, selling property, or handling finances, often held by family members rather than professionals.
Caroline Abrahams, charity director at Age UK, noted inheritance is now the main way people transform their standard of living, making the stakes incredibly high. She added that while it would be ideal to expect high-minded conduct, constrained living standards make this too much to ask. Where serious concerns arise, the Office of the Public Guardian and Court of Protection can intervene, but Downey said the process is complex and daunting for families.
He urged vigilance for signs like unexplained withdrawals, unusual money transfers, changes to property arrangements, or attorneys preventing family contact. Abrahams concluded that while having an LPA is wise and best done early, choosing the right attorney requires careful thought and expert advice to focus on what is objectively best for the older person.
Source: Financial Times Companies · Summarized by HeadlinesBriefing