In Scotland, the law surrounding Power of Attorney (PoA) is governed by the Adults with Incapacity (Scotland) Act 2000. This legislation provides a framework for protecting the welfare and managing the finances of adults who lack capacity due to mental disorders or inability to communicate. Understanding the key points of Scottish Power of Attorney (PoA) law is crucial for both individuals granting a PoA and those acting as attorneys.

A Power of Attorney (PoA) is typically used when you are no longer able to make decisions for yourself and, as such, younger people may feel they do not need one yet. However, unforeseen accidents and illnesses can happen to anyone, no matter how old you are.

Scottish Legal News have quoted a recent article in The Herald which discusses how rising dementia rates have prompted calls for Scots to ensure they have a Power of Attorney in place in the event they fall ill.

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.