The approach of Christmas is a timely opportunity to remind deputies and attorneys of the need to check the court order or LPA /EPA appointing them before making a Christmas gift on their client’s behalf.
If the appointment document doesn’t say otherwise, a small gift can be usually be made to a client’s family member, friend, or acquaintance on occasions when gifts are customarily made (such as at Christmas).
Nevertheless, the rules relating to gifts can be a minefield. Accordingly, deputies and attorneys should ensure they are familiar with the Office of the Public Guardian’s guidance notes on the topic before making a gift of any sort.