A Lasting Power of Attorney grants power to someone (the attorney) to deal with the affairs of the person granting the power (the donor). 

 

 

LPAs remain in effect even after the donor has lost mental capacity.

 

A Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA) allows a loved one to officially act for you if you can no longer make decisions for yourself. The attorney must act on behalf of the donor and in their best interests.

 

Where no LPA exists and it is too late to put one in place, the family must apply to the court. The main problem with this route is that it is costly and will usually take a long time. For these reasons, an LPA should be seriously considered by all who wish to avoid these potential costs and delays.

 

There are two types of LPA as follows:

 

• Property and Financial Affairs

This document allows your Attorney to make decisions and act on your behalf with regards to your property and financial affairs. This may range from paying bills and making inquiries with the bank to buying or selling property and managing investments. It can be used as soon as it’s registered, with your permission.

 

• Health and Welfare

This document allows your Attorney to make decisions and act on your behalf with regards to your health and welfare. This may range from your day-to-day care, e.g. diet and daily routine to medical treatment and end-of-life decisions. It can only be used when you are unable to make your own decisions.

 

To begin your LPA, please contact us.