What Is a Lasting Power of Attorney and Why Do I Need One?

Many people spend time thinking about their Will and what should happen after they die. However, far fewer people consider what would happen if they were still alive but unable to make decisions for themselves.

This is where a Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA) becomes extremely important.

A Lasting Power of Attorney is a legal document that allows you to appoint someone you trust to make decisions on your behalf if you become unable to do so yourself.

At Newlife Wills, we often find that many people have never heard of LPAs, yet they can be just as important as having a Will.

The Two Types of Lasting Power of Attorney

There are two different types of LPA, and many people choose to put both in place.

Health and Welfare LPA

A Health and Welfare Lasting Power of Attorney allows someone you trust to make decisions about your personal wellbeing if you lose mental capacity.

This may include decisions about:

• Medical treatment

• Care arrangements

• Where you live

• Daily routines and personal care

• Life-sustaining treatment (if you choose to give that authority)

Your chosen attorney can only make these decisions if you are unable to make them yourself.

Property and Financial Affairs LPA

A Property and Financial Affairs Lasting Power of Attorney allows someone you trust to manage your finances if you are unable to do so.

This could include:

• Managing bank accounts

• Paying bills

• Handling pensions or benefits

• Managing investments

• Selling or maintaining property

This type of LPA can also be used with your permission while you still have capacity, which can be helpful if you ever need assistance managing your finances.

What Happens If You Don’t Have an LPA?

Without a Lasting Power of Attorney in place, your loved ones cannot automatically step in to make decisions for you.

Instead, they may have to apply to the Court of Protection to become a Deputy.

This process can be:

• Expensive

• Time-consuming

• Stressful for families

• Less flexible than an LPA

During this time, important financial or medical decisions may be delayed while the court application is processed.

Choosing the Right Attorneys

Your attorney should be someone you trust completely, such as:

• A spouse or partner

• An adult child

• A close family member

• A trusted friend

You can also appoint more than one attorney and decide how they should make decisions together.

Planning Ahead for Peace of Mind

None of us like to think about losing our ability to make decisions, but putting a Lasting Power of Attorney in place ensures that the people you trust most can step in and help if needed.

Just like a Will, an LPA is about protecting your future and making life easier for your loved ones.

Speak to Newlife Wills

At Newlife Wills, we help clients put both Wills and Lasting Powers of Attorney in place, giving families complete peace of mind.

If you would like to discuss putting an LPA in place, we would be happy to help guide you through the process.

📩 Contact Newlife Wills today to arrange an appointment on 01843 269165