What is a Lasting Power of Attorney?

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A Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA) is a vital element of end of life care. Should you become unable to make decisions for yourself due to a future illness or disability, someone will need to be able to make important decisions on your behalf. 

The person who has this responsibility will be dependent upon the situation. For example, more general decisions relating to your health and social care are most likely to be made by the professionals involved with your care, whereas members of your family, carers or friends, may make decisions on day-to-day matters. 

You may wish to officially appoint someone you trust to take on the responsibility of carrying out important decisions on your behalf, should you be unable to make them yourself. In order to do this, it will be necessary for you to make an LPA – this is the only way to officially provide another person with the right to make decisions about your care and welfare. 

 

The two types of LPA: 

  • A Property and Financial Affairs LPA will allow your chosen person to handle any bank accounts, investments, bills, and property in your name. 
  • A Health and Welfare LPA will allow your chosen person to make any decisions relating to your health and care. 

 

Why should I make an LPA? 

Should an illness befall you that severely affects your mental capacity and decision-making capabilities, such as dementia, Alzheimer’s, or Parkinson’s, and you do not have an LPA in place, it will then be necessary for your family to apply to the Court of Protection to request the permission to handle your affairs. This process can be slow, expensive and stressful. 

Making an LPA as soon as possible is the best way to protect your own future, and save your friends and family from facing any unnecessary complications should you suffer with an illness in later life. 

The expert solicitors at DRN have years of experience in completing LPAs, Wills and various other end of life arrangements. Contact our team today for further advice and professional guidance. 

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