We’re delighted to announce that our Solicitor Loren McDermott has been recognised with national accreditation for her expertise in legal support for older and vulnerable clients, their families and carers.
The accreditation is awarded by SFE (Solicitors for the Elderly), the organisation setting the standards for the highest quality legal advice in specialist areas, such as wills, powers of attorney and elder abuse.
To achieve accreditation, lawyers are required to undertake assessment to demonstrate solid understanding of the specific needs and considerations required when safeguarding and protecting older clients’ interests.
Lakshmi Turner, Chief Executive of SFE,said: “When it comes to planning ahead for later life, getting the right advice is essential.
“An SFE accredited lawyer is an expert in this area of the law and understands the wider, often sensitive, issues around health, care and family that may need consideration.
“SFE lawyers understand the issues affecting older and vulnerable clients and follow a strict code of practice with respect and dignity at its heart.”
SFE (Solicitors for the Elderly) is an independent, national organisation of over 1,500 lawyers, such as solicitors, barristers, and chartered legal executives, who provide specialist legal advice for older and vulnerable people, their families and carers.
The main areas of law members cover are:
- Powers of Attorney
- Making a Will
- Living Wills
- Tax planning
- Asset preservation
- Trusts
- Probate
- Paying for care
- NHS Continuing Care Funding
- Will disputes
- Court of Protection
- Elder abuse
In order to be a fully accredited member, lawyers must have a minimum of three years’ experience advising in areas of older client law and have completed the Older Client Care in Practice Award – a qualification which demonstrates the specialist client care skills that enable lawyers to advise and support older and vulnerable clients.
Members are also required to continuously update their knowledge with training and produce an annual statement of competence, which ensures they maintain their expertise.
Date
27 November, 2023
Author
Phil Winter
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