When planning for the future, many people focus on making a Will, but what happens if you’re unable to make decisions for yourself while you’re still alive? This is where a lasting power of attorney becomes essential.
A lasting power of attorney gives someone you trust the legal authority to make important decisions on your behalf if you lose mental or physical capacity. It ensures your wishes are respected and that the people you trust are in control of your welfare, finances, and property.
What Is a Lasting Power of Attorney?
A lasting power of attorney is a legal document that lets you appoint one or more people (known as attorneys) to help you make decisions or make them for you if you’re no longer able to.
There are two types of lasting power of attorney:
- Health and Welfare LPA: Covers decisions about medical care, daily routines, moving into a care home, and life-sustaining treatment.
- Property and Financial Affairs LPA: Covers managing your bank accounts, paying bills, collecting benefits or pensions, and selling property.
You can choose to set up one or both types of lasting power of attorney, depending on your needs. For more detail, read the UK Government’s official guidance on LPA.
Why You Need a Lasting Power of Attorney
Here are the top reasons to set up an LPA today:
1. Peace of Mind for the Future
Without a lasting power of attorney, your loved ones won’t have automatic rights to make decisions on your behalf. They may have to apply through the Court of Protection, which is costly and time-consuming.
2. You Stay in Control
Setting up a lasting power of attorney allows you to decide who will manage your affairs – not the courts. You can choose people you trust, and set clear instructions or preferences.
3. Quick Action When It Matters Most
In an emergency, a registered lasting power of attorney means your chosen attorney can act immediately – managing finances, arranging care, or liaising with doctors – without delays.
When Should I Make a Lasting Power of Attorney?
There’s a common myth that lasting power of attorney is only for the elderly. In reality, any adult can lose capacity unexpectedly due to illness, injury, or accident.
Making a lasting power of attorney early ensures you’re prepared for the unexpected – and it only takes effect if you can no longer decide for yourself.
What Happens If I Don’t Have One?
Without an LPA, your family may have to apply to the Court of Protection to gain authority to act on your behalf. This process can:
- Take months
- Cost significantly more
- Cause stress during an already difficult time
Having an LPA avoids all this.
How Do I Set Up a Lasting Power of Attorney?
At The Will Centre in Plymouth, we make the process simple, clear, and tailored to your needs. We’ll:
- Help you understand what a lasting power of attorney can cover
- Ensure your wishes are correctly documented
- Assist with completing and registering the forms
- Provide ongoing support should your circumstances change
You don’t have to face legal jargon or confusing paperwork alone, we’re here to guide you every step of the way. Learn more about our Will writing and LPA services to ensure every part of your future planning is covered.
Can I Change or Cancel a Lasting Power of Attorney?
Yes – as long as you still have mental capacity, you can cancel or update your lasting power of attorney at any time. It’s important to review your LPA if:
- Your chosen attorneys are no longer suitable
- Your relationships change
- Your personal or financial situation changes
Does a Will Cover the Same Things?
No – a Will and a lasting power of attorney are completely different. A Will takes effect after you die, while a lasting power of attorney covers decisions during your lifetime, if you can’t make them yourself.
To fully protect yourself and your loved ones, it’s essential to have both a valid Will and a lasting power of attorney in place.
Why Choose The Will Centre for Your Lasting Power of Attorney?
With over 30 years of experience, The Will Centre in Plymouth has helped thousands of families plan ahead with confidence. Our friendly, jargon-free service ensures your lasting power of attorney is completed properly and registered without delay.
We’re committed to making the process stress-free and straightforward, giving you peace of mind that your affairs will be handled exactly as you wish.
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