Lasting Powers of Attorney
Lasting Powers of Attorney
At Franklins Solicitors, we help individuals and families create LPAs that provide reassurance, protect their interests, and reduce the burden on loved ones during times of uncertainty.
At Franklins Solicitors, we help individuals and families create LPAs that provide reassurance, protect their interests, and reduce the burden on loved ones during times of uncertainty.
Law for life
What Is a Lasting Power of Attorney?
A Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA) is a legal document that allows a person to authorise one or more people to act on their behalf. There are two types of LPA, each covering different aspects of life.
A Property and Financial Affairs LPA enables your attorneys to manage your money, property, and financial matters, such as paying bills, managing bank accounts, or selling a property. A Health and Welfare LPA, on the other hand, gives your attorneys the authority to make decisions about your daily care, living arrangements, and medical treatment — but only if you lose the ability to make those decisions yourself.
Both types of LPA must be registered with the Office of the Public Guardian (OPG) before they can be used. The Property and Financial Affairs LPA can be used with your consent while you still have mental capacity, whereas the Health and Welfare LPA only comes into effect once you are no longer able to make decisions independently.
law for life
Why Is an LPA So Important?
Many people assume that a spouse or close family member would automatically be allowed to make decisions if they became unable to do so, but legally, this is not the case.
Without an LPA in place, your loved ones would need to apply to the Court of Protection for the appointment of a Deputy – a process that can be lengthy and emotionally draining. By creating and registering an LPA in advance, you avoid these complications.
You maintain control over who acts on your behalf, and your chosen attorneys will have clear legal authority to act in your best interests without delay. This simple step provides certainty not just for you, but also for those around you, at a time when clear direction and trust is essential.
