Recent statistics show that there has been a drop in LPA registrations because of Covid-19. It is estimated that 77% of people aged over 55 in the UK do not have an LPA registered. This is concerning and the purpose of this blog is to create more awareness given an LPA is a crucial part of planning for your future.
A Lasting Power of Attorney is a legal document that allows you to appoint a member of your family or a close friend to make decisions on your behalf. There are two different Powers of Attorney available – one is for Property and Financial Decisions, and one is for Health and Welfare decisions.
If you do not make Powers of Attorney whilst you have the mental capacity to do so, and you subsequently lose the ability to look after your own affairs, then the alternative is an application to the Court of Protection for the Court to appoint somebody. This can be very expensive, very time consuming and very stressful.
Property and Financial Affairs
Your appointed attorneys can assist with decisions relating to Property and Finance. This
could be making simple decisions such as paying bills up to more complex decisions such as the sale of a property. Attorneys can begin to help you with your financial affairs even whilst you have your full mental capacity, for example, if you slipped in the snow and could not get to the bank, your Attorneys can go for you.
Health and Welfare
This allows your Attorneys to make decisions about your health and care such as whether to refuse or consent to certain treatments and where you might live or receive care. Your Attorneys cannot make these decisions until such point as you are no longer able to make the decisions for yourself.
Attorneys
You can appoint one Attorney, or as many Attorneys as you think fit, although we tend to recommend a maximum of four (plus replacements if applicable). It is vitally important that you choose attorneys who you trust to act in your best interests and who understand your wishes and feelings about how you would spend your money.
The Law states that your Attorneys must always act honestly and in your best interests. Whilst you have the capacity to do so, you can revoke your Power of Attorney at any point. If you wish to discuss this further, please do not hesitate to contact us.
Krista Enziano is a Director/Solicitor at Northern Law Solicitors. For more information please contact her on :-
01706 398 398 or email :- krista.enziano@northernlaw.co.uk
