Tallaght solicitor one of first to introduce ‘digital trustees’

By Mary Dennehy

HAVE you ever wondered what would happen to your online presence after you pass away or any digital assets you have on sites such as eBay or Amazon?

Tallaght solicitor John Glynn has, and is one of the first firms in the country to introduce the concept of ‘digital trustees’.

Based in Tallaght Village since 1972, John is known for his forward-thinking and ability to adapt, with his latest concept encouraging people to consider assigning a person with the task of managing and deleting their online presence and technology footprint, i.e. Facebook, Twitter and WhatsApp, after they pass away.

The trustee would also be responsible for drawing down any digital assets that a person may have on sites such as eBay, Amazon or online banking sites.

John told The Echo: “I came up with this concept with a barrister and it all stemmed from the fact that many of us have our whole life online nowadays.

“As we become more and more online dependant, we may need someone to handle our online presence when we pass away, close down Facebook, Twitter, Gmail accounts, WhatsApp, online banking.

“You may also have assets online through products you have on Amazon or eBay. You may be owed money from an online gambling site or have money with an online bank.

“I believe people need to start thinking about appointing a person or a company to deal with the digital side of their life, which will also ensure that any digital assets are protected and that they are transferred to your estate.”

He added: “I don’t think a lot of people would be comfortable with others fishing through their online data so while the concept of ‘digital trustee’ is a new one, I do believe it is an area that people will have to consider as our lives and transactions continue to move more online.”

Another area of business that John is experiencing change in is Power of Attorney, in which he believes is in response to a growing awareness around mental health issues.

“If a person loses their mental capability, they may not be able to handle their affairs or assets”, John said.

“An application can be made to the court for that person to become a Ward of Court, and a committee, usually of family members, is established to manage property.

“However, this is a very expensive process.”

He said: “People can appoint an attorney with their solicitor in the event of anything happening and I think anybody from forty up or who has a history of mental illness such as Alzheimer’s in their family should consider appointing an attorney.

“It’s very important and this week alone, I have appointed five attorneys.

“I think it is a reflection of the society we live in and as mental illness and strokes seem to be coming more prevalent, it is something that should be considered.”

For more on John Glynn and Co Solitictors call 4515099 or visit www.solicitor.net