When someone loses mental capacity without having already appointed an attorney to look after his or her financial affairs in such circumstances, a deputy will be appointed by the Court of Protection. The Court will then give detailed instructions as to how the deputy can deal with that person's assets, including any property. Deputies' duties can be onerous and they are under a duty to account for their actions at all times.
Experienced professional advice will smooth the course of an application to the Court for deputies to be appointed. Experience can also simplify ongoing administration on behalf of the deputy (eg. payment of nursing home fees and other bills, sale of property, claiming benefits etc).
The deputy is normally a relative or friend of the incapable person. However, in cases where there is no-one willing or suitable to act as deputy or where large amounts of money are involved, the Court will appoint a professional deputy. Wrigleys are often asked to act as deputy.