Lasting Power of Attorney

What would happen if you were no longer able to make decisions for yourself?

A Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA) allows you to choose someone you trust to make decisions on your behalf if you lose the mental capacity to make them yourself, or, for certain decisions, if you want their help.

Putting an LPA in place gives you a say in who can help manage your affairs and can make things easier for the people closest to you.

What is a Lasting Power of Attorney?

An LPA is a legal document that allows you to appoint one or more people, known as attorneys, to make decisions on your behalf. You choose who you trust to act for you and can set out how you want them to make decisions.

What are the different types of LPA?

There are two types of LPA in England and Wales:

- Property and Financial Affairs LPA: Covers things such as paying bills, managing bank accounts and dealing with property.

- Health and Welfare LPA: Covers decisions about your daily care, medical treatment and living arrangements.

You can choose to make one type or both, depending on your circumstances.

Who should make an LPA?

An LPA isn't just for older people. An unexpected illness or accident can affect anyone's ability to make decisions. Putting an LPA in place while you have mental capacity means you can choose who you would want to act for you if the need arises.

What happens if I don't have an LPA?

If you lose mental capacity without an LPA in place, your loved ones may not automatically have the legal authority to make decisions or manage your finances for you. They may need to apply to the Court of Protection for permission to act on your behalf, which can take time and involve additional costs.

Can my spouse or children automatically make decisions for me?

No. Being married to someone or being their closest relative doesn't automatically give you legal authority to manage their finances or make health and welfare decisions on their behalf. An LPA allows you to choose the people you trust to take on this responsibility.

When should I make an LPA?

The best time is while you have mental capacity to understand and make the decision. You don't have to wait until you're older or unwell. Planning ahead means your chosen attorneys can step in if they're ever needed.

Making your LPA with ZW Wills

Choosing someone to make decisions on your behalf is a personal decision, and it's important to get it right.

I'll guide you through the process, explain your options in straightforward language and help you put the right arrangements in place for your circumstances.

Get in touch to discuss making your Lasting Power of Attorney.