Planning what to do when life takes an unexpected turn is an important stage of planning, ensuring peace of mind.
A Lasting Power of Attorney is a legal document. One person, referred to as the donor – gives another person, referred to as the attorney – the power to act on their behalf, and make decisions involving healthcare and finances.
An LPA may be exercised when the donor lacks the capacity to make decisions for themselves.
Situations where an LPA is crucial
Having an LPA is an essential consideration if you are a business owner. They can allow your business to carry on, free from interruption, in the event that you are ill, or unable to make business decisions for yourself.
If you are ill or in hospital for a considerable length of time, having an LPA allows you to instruct an attorney who is authorised to handle your financial affairs in the interim. A trusted person can access accounts, deal with payments and pensions, or buy and sell property on your behalf.
Having a Lasting Power of Attorney ensures that you have a say over your own treatment, medical matters, and place of living, should you find yourself with dementia or another illness that renders you incapable under the Mental Capacity Act 2005. It can document treatments that you consent to, or your preferences over your care.
UK Power of Attorney
Should you become incapable of managing your own affairs, and you have no LPA in place, your loved ones face the stress both financially and emotionally of dealing with the Court of Protection. Decisions will then be made by the court, rather than them reflecting your own preferences.
Specialists who deal with UK power of attorney can help you to quickly and easily set up your LPA, providing you and your loved ones with complete peace of mind regarding the future.
A specialist provider will then ensure that your completed LPA is registered with the Office of the Public Guardian, making it a legal and official document.
