A Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA) allows you to give an individual of your choice (your attorney) the authority to make decisions on your behalf at a time when you may be unable to do so yourself. This could be through illness, injury or any other condition which may affect your mental capacity.
By making an LPA you can plan exactly how your financial affairs or health should be looked after should you be unable to make these important decisions yourself. You can elect what decisions you want to be made on your behalf and who you would like to make them.
There are two types of LPA. You can choose to make one type or both:
- Property and financial affairs
- Health and welfare
LPA-Property and Financial Affairs
This gives your attorney the authority to make financial decisions on your behalf. This could include paying bills, collecting benefits or income, or even selling your home. This type of LPA can also be used whilst you have the capacity to handle your affairs-for example if you were living abroad and needed someone to handle these details in your absence.
LPA-Health and Welfare
This LPA gives your attorney the authority to make personal welfare and medical treatment or healthcare decisions on your behalf. It can include instructions regarding life-sustaining treatment if you become very ill. The LPA allows your attorney to make decisions only when you are unable to make decisions yourself.
In the unfortunate event of you losing mental capacity without an LPA in place, your affairs will be dealt with under the supervision of the Court of Protection. This can be both expensive and long-winded.
The importance of correct advice when considering making an LPA is essential. GA Solicitors has a professional and experienced team which provides expert advice in regard to the preparation and registration of LPAs. The team works on a fixed fee basis, ensuring you always know where you stand.
For more information, call 01752 203500, or email enquiries@GAsolicitors.com.
