What is a Lasting Power of Attorney?
Many people have heard of a Lasting Power of Attorney, but may not be sure exactly what it involves or why someone might choose to put one in place. In simple terms, an LPA is a way of formally choosing who you would like to step in and help make certain decisions for you if needed. The person you appoint is known as your attorney, and they can be given responsibility for specific areas of your life depending on the type of LPA you create.
LPAs are often considered by people who want to take a practical approach to managing their affairs and make sure someone they trust can provide support if they’re unable to deal with a particular matter themselves. There are two types of Lasting Power of Attorney, each dealing with a different area of decision-making:
- Property and Financial Affairs LPA – this gives your chosen attorney authority to deal with financial matters, such as managing accounts, paying bills, handling property and making decisions about your finances. This type of LPA can be used while you still have mental capacity if you allow your attorney to act on your behalf, as well as if you later lose capacity.
- Health and Welfare LPA – this covers decisions relating to your personal welfare, including matters such as medical treatment, care arrangements and where you live. Unlike a Property and Financial Affairs LPA, it can only be used once you no longer have the mental capacity to make the relevant decisions yourself.
How can our Lasting Power of Attorney solicitors in Blackburn help you?
At Farleys, our Lasting Power of Attorney solicitors in Blackburn begin with a detailed discussion about your situation, including your reasons for considering an LPA, the people you may wish to appoint as attorneys and the decisions you would like them to be able to make. We will explain the differences between a Property and Financial Affairs LPA and a Health and Welfare LPA, including what each type covers, when it can be used and any limitations that apply. Our team can help you consider who would be suitable to act as your attorney, whether you wish to appoint one person or more than one, and whether any additional instructions or preferences should be included within your LPA. We’ll also always make sure you understand the decisions you’re making before preparing the necessary documentation.
Once your LPA has been prepared, we’ll guide you through the signing process to help ensure all legal requirements are met. This includes making sure the document is correctly executed and helping you understand the role of the certificate provider and witnesses. We can then assist with submitting the LPA to the Office of the Public Guardian for registration, so it is ready to be used if required.
Why choose our Lasting Power of Attorney solicitors in Blackburn?
Deciding to create a Lasting Power of Attorney can involve some important and personal choices. It requires careful consideration about who you trust, the authority you would like them to have and how you want decisions to be handled in the future. We understand that this process can sometimes feel unfamiliar or complex, which is why our solicitors provide thoughtful, practical guidance at every stage.
Our approach combines attention to detail with a clear understanding of your individual circumstances. From your first conversation with us through to preparing your documents and completing the registration process, our LPA solicitors in Blackburn will take care of the practical steps while keeping you fully informed and involved in the decisions that matter most. By explaining your options, highlighting any considerations and ensuring your documents accurately reflect your wishes, we help create an arrangement that provides clarity and reassurance for the future.
