What are Lasting Powers of Attorneys?
Creating Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA) is important for anyone over the age of 18. An LPA lets you choose someone you trust to make decisions for you if you can’t make them yourself due to illness or disability. It is best to set this up as soon as you can. Here’s why you should make your LPAs now and why you should consider working with a solicitor.
Why should you be making a Lasting Power of Attorney now?
- Making sure your wishes are followed
An LPA helps clarify how you want decisions made about your health and finances. Without it, your loved ones might struggle to know what you would want and they may have to go through a Court of Protection Application to gain authority to act for you. This can be very timely and expensive. By creating an LPA, you ensure that your preferences are respected. A lawyer will make suggestions of additional provisions that you would not necessarily think of including if you do not have the benefit of legal advice.
- Prevent family disputes
Without an LPA, family members may disagree about what to do when you are unable to make decisions. This can create conflict at a difficult time. An LPA helps reduce misunderstandings and ensures that everyone knows who has the authority to make decisions on your behalf.
- Act before it is too Late
Many people wait until a crisis to think about an LPA. Once someone loses the ability to make decisions, they can no longer create one. It is essential to plan ahead and make your LPA while you are still able. Waiting can lead to complications for both you and your loved ones.
- Reducing the risk of errors
The creation of an LPA involves specific legal standards and protocols. We can guide you through this process to make sure you meet all the requirements. This helps avoid problems that could arise from errors in your documents and minimise delays in the registration of your LPA.
- Getting personalised advice
Everyone’s situation is different, and we understand that. We would discuss who the right people would be to appoint as attorneys, whether these are family members or professional attorneys. We can also discuss additional clauses that can be included within your LPA which will allow your attorney to act in your best interests whilst still continuing to follow your wishes.
- Enjoy peace of mind
Setting up an LPA gives you peace of mind. You know your affairs are organised and that your loved ones will not struggle to make decisions for you. This can reduce stress for both you and your family.
Creating Lasting Powers of Attorney is a crucial aspect of planning for the future. It not only ensures that your wishes are respected but also avoids the lengthy and costly involvement of the Court of Protection.
We can provide expertise, ensure compliance with legal standards, and tailor the LPAs to meet your specific needs. Taking this proactive step today can safeguard both your future and that of your loved ones, making it a wise investment in your peace of mind.
Looking for expert legal advice on Lasting Powers of Attorneys? Contact our Wiltshire based solicitors today for trusted guidance.
Author – Hannah Davidson
