Deputyship Lawyers

Deputyship Application Services in Singapore

1.   What is a Deputyship?

A Deputyship is a legal appointment by the Family Court in Singapore that grants an individual - the Deputy - the authority to make decisions for someone who has lost mental capacity. This process is necessary when the person has not made a Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA) beforehand. The Deputy's role can cover personal welfare and/or property and financial affairs.

The person lacking mental capacity is often referred to as the "protected person." The court's primary goal is to protect the protected person's best interests.

2.   What Constitutes a "Loss of Mental Capacity?"

A person is legally considered to lack mental capacity if they are unable to:

• Understand relevant information.
• Retain that information.
• Weigh or use that information to make a decision.
• Communicate their decision, whether through speech, sign language, or other means.

3.   When is a Deputyship Application Necessary?

A deputyship application is essential in situations where a loved one has suffered an unforeseen event—such as a stroke, an accident, or a progressive illness like dementia - and can no longer manage their own affairs. Unlike a Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA), which is a proactive measure for future incapacity, a deputyship is a reactive measure required after incapacity has already occurred.

This means that if a family member is no longer able to make sound decisions and has not created an LPA, a deputyship application is the only legal way to gain authority to manage their finances, healthcare, and other personal matters.

4.   The Deputyship Application Process

Applying to become a Deputy involves several steps and can be a lengthy process, typically taking several months. Our family lawyers guide you through each stage to ensure a smooth application. The process generally includes:

• Initial Consultation: We assess your situation and advise on the necessary documents and strategy.
• Document Preparation: Gathering all required legal and medical documents, including the medical report from a registered medical practitioner confirming the person's loss of mental capacity.
• Court Application: Filing the application with the Family Court.
• Court Hearing: Attending the court hearing where the judge will review the application and make a decision.
• Receiving the Order: Once the court issues the deputyship order, you are legally empowered to act as the Deputy.

Why Choose PKWA Law for Your Deputyship Application?

Navigating the complexities of a deputyship application can be daunting, especially during a stressful time for your family.  The family lawyers at PKWA Law offers the expertise and support you need:

• Specialised Expertise: Our dedicated family lawyers have a strong focus on deputyship and mental capacity law, ensuring your case is handled by specialists.
• Proven Track Record: We have a history of successfully helping families secure deputyship orders. Our lawyers have been consistently recognised by prominent legal publications.
• Transparency and Trust: We provide fixed, clear fees upfront so you know exactly what to expect. We also offer a free initial consultation to understand your specific needs without any obligation.
• Decades of Experience: With over 30 years of history, we are a trusted name in Singapore's legal community, known for our professionalism and reliability

Ready to get started?

Our lawyers will explain your options clearly, outline your costs upfront, and help you take the next step with confidence.  Contact us at:

Tel:  +65 6854 5336

Whatapp: +65 9090 3158

Email:   enquiry@pkwalaw.com

 

About Singapore Family Lawyers

Singapore Family Lawyers is powered by the award-winning team at PKWA Law.  Our firm is consistently ranked among Singapore's top family law practices.

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