Overview

A lasting power of attorney (LPA) is a legal document that enables you to say who you would like to make decisions on your behalf should you be unable to in the future. There are two types, one for finances and property and another concerned with your health and welfare.

As long as you are able to make decisions and inform your attorneys (the person or people you choose to make decisions on your behalf) you can draw up an LPA. A health and welfare LPA can only be used if you can’t make your own decisions, but you can appoint someone to look after your property and finances at any time.

It is largely a form-filling exercise and you can do it yourself, but to ensure it is effective you need to get it right. You must register your lasting power of attorney with the Office of the Public Guardian straightaway and you will need a doctor’s form to certify that you have capacity.

For these reasons, it is worth asking a solicitor to help you draw up your LPA to avoid complications in future. We have a team of experts who can advise you about the process and make sure you have considered all the implications.

Lasting powers of attorney have replaced enduring powers of attorney (EPA). An EPA can still be used if it was made and signed before October 2007, although you must register it with the court first.

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