A Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA) appoints someone you know to look after your affairs in the event that you become incapable of doing so yourself. This person is known as an Attorney and you can choose to appoint a friend, relative or a professional to act as your Attorney.
Having an LPA in place makes it easier for someone you trust to manage your affairs if you can’t manage them yourself.
There are two types of LPAs. One for property and financial decisions and one for your health and welfare (such as medical decisions).
It is very important that your Attorney is someone you trust to act in your best interests.
A Lasting Power of Attorney can only be made when a person has capacity i.e. when they are of sound mind. Unfortunately, all too often people don’t plan ahead and only start thinking about an LPA when it is too late.
If a person has lost capacity and does not have an LPA in place then matters become more difficult, time consuming and expensive. In this instance, the only option available is to apply to the Court of Protection to be appointed as a Deputy. This can be a very long and drawn out process. Making an LPA before its too late is quick, straightforward and considerably cheaper.
We believe that preparing an LPA is just as important as preparing a will. Not only does an LPA give you control over who makes decisions on your behalf but it also provides peace of mind and stability for you and your loved ones.
It is especially important that anyone running a business has an LPA to ensure continuity in the management of their business should they suffer mental or physical incapacity.
Contact a member of our team to discuss your needs and decide which option is best for you. We have transparent and competitive fixed fee packages and will deal with all of the paperwork for you.
For more information please contact one of our Wills & Probate team either on 01685 871133, or e-mail us at [email protected]
