Lasting Powers of Attorney

Empower Your Future with Lasting Power of Attorney

A Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA) is a legal document that allows an individual to appoint someone else to make decisions on their behalf in case they become unable to make decisions for themselves. There are two types of LPA:

Property and Financial Affairs LPA: This type of LPA allows the appointed person (known as the attorney) to make decisions about the individual’s finances and property, such as managing bank accounts, paying bills, selling property, and making investments.

Health and Welfare LPA: This type of LPA allows the appointed person to make decisions about the individual’s health and welfare, such as decisions about medical treatment, where the individual lives, and day-to-day care.

To create an LPA, the individual must be at least 18 years old and have the mental capacity to make their own decisions. They must also choose a trusted person to act as their attorney, who must be at least 18 years old and have the mental capacity to make decisions on the individual’s behalf. The LPA must be registered with the Office of the Public Guardian before it can be used.

LPAs are important because they allow individuals to plan ahead for a time when they may be unable to make decisions for themselves. Without an LPA, family members or medical professionals may have to make decisions on their behalf, which may not be in line with their wishes. LPAs also give individuals peace of mind, knowing that their affairs will be taken care of by someone they trust if they become incapacitated.

It’s important to note that LPAs can only be used if the individual becomes incapacitated. They cannot be used while the individual still has the capacity to make their own decisions. Additionally, LPAs can be revoked or amended at any time as long as the individual still has the mental capacity to do so.

For further advice on Lasting Powers of Attorney from experts that specialise in dealing with all aspects of estate planning, please contact us through our confidential online enquiry form or telephone 01327 317388