When a loved one goes missing it is hard on everyone left behind. That element of uncertainty is what makes it all so much harder. Add to that the fact that if the person who is missing had assets such as a property and bank accounts, these will need to be dealt with at some point. If the owner is no longer around, that makes the situation much worse.
What Should Be Done?
In the past, there was nothing that family members could do about this. The assets could not be sold off or released, since the missing person might come back for them. And the law stated that, unless they were declared dead, they still had responsibility for those assets. Houses, cars, money, and possessions all had to simply sit and wait, just like everyone else.
In 2015 there was a change to the law, and this made things much easier for all concerned. Since that time, the changes mean that family members can in fact step in and take control of the assets that have been left unattended. For example, they can suspend direct debits on mobile phones or utility bills. They can also take over paying the mortgage on a property if need be.
Taking care of the assets
A guardian will need to be appointed by the courts to ensure that the assets are taken care of. This will need to be someone with an interest in the assets, such as a family member or perhaps the executor mentioned in the missing person’s Will, assuming they have written one. This guardian must then go on to act in the best interests of the missing person, whether that means paying bills or selling assets. Accounts will need to be filed and sent to the Office of the Public Guardian. When the appointment is made, it will be for a period of up to four years. After that time, an extension can be applied for if it makes sense to do so.
