The total number of complaints regarding alleged financial misconduct by attorneys acting under a Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA) has reached record levels, according to new figures obtained by TWM Solicitors from the Ministry of Justice (MoJ).
The data reveals a near 25% increase in such complaints over the past two years, signalling growing concerns about the management of vulnerable individuals' finances.
For the year ending 31 March 2026, the MoJ recorded 11,910 complaints relating to financial misconduct. This marks a significant rise from 10,240 complaints in the preceding 12 months, and 9,538 in the year prior to that.
Despite this record number of allegations, only 263 LPAs had their authority fully or partially revoked by the Court of Protection during the most recent reporting year. This figure suggests a substantial disparity between the volume of complaints and the number of formal interventions.
Stuart Downey, Partner and Head of Will Trust and Estate Disputes at TWM Solicitors, commented on the findings, expressing concern for vulnerable donors. "An attorney under a Lasting Power of Attorney does not need to have professional qualifications or specialist experience in managing someone else’s finances," Mr Downey stated. "They are, however, taking on a significant responsibility and must act in the donor’s best interests and follow the legal duties that apply to them."
Mr Downey emphasised the seriousness of the situation, particularly where the donor is elderly or otherwise vulnerable. "The record number of complaints about financial misconduct is concerning," he added. "An LPA gives an attorney considerable authority over another person’s affairs, so there needs to be confidence that appropriate safeguards are available when that authority is abused."
Examples of financial misconduct observed by Mr Downey in practice include unexplained bank withdrawals, large transfers of cash or assets to the attorney, and the sale of property, particularly for cash or below market value. Other issues encompass restricting contact with friends and family, and general mismanagement of finances.
The issue of LPA attorney conduct has recently drawn public attention following allegations surrounding the explorer Sir Ranulph Fiennes. A national newspaper reported that Sir Ranulph had been moved between various care homes under assumed identities by his wife, acting as his attorney, leading to speculation regarding his whereabouts and care.
While the Office of the Public Guardian initially declined multiple requests to intervene in the Fiennes case, Cheshire Police subsequently stated that no immediate safeguarding concerns had been identified. The police also affirmed that Sir Ranulph's current settings are appropriate, despite ongoing legal and fundraising efforts by family members, including his stepson.
The rising number of complaints highlights the complexities and potential vulnerabilities within the LPA system, underscoring the ongoing debate about the adequacy of existing safeguards and the enforcement of legal duties for those entrusted with significant financial authority.
