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Writer's pictureBrenden OSullivan

Why an LPA?

A Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA) is a legal document that allows a person (the donor) to appoint someone (the attorney) to make decisions on their behalf. This can be useful in the event that the donor becomes unable to make decisions for themselves, such as in the case of illness or disability. In the UK, LPAs are becoming increasingly popular, but there are still many people who are not aware of their importance. In this blog post, we will explore the lasting powers of attorney in the UK and why they are essential for everyone.


What is a Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA)?


A Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA) is a legal document that allows a person to appoint someone to make decisions on their behalf. There are two types of LPA: Property and Financial Affairs LPA and Health and Welfare LPA. The former allows the attorney to make decisions about the donor's finances, while the latter allows them to make decisions about the donor's health and care.


Why are LPAs important?


LPAs are essential because they allow the donor to appoint someone they trust to make decisions on their behalf if they become unable to do so themselves. This can be particularly important in the case of illness or disability, where the donor may be unable to make decisions for themselves.


LPAs can also be useful for those who are getting older and want to plan for the future. By appointing an attorney, they can ensure that their wishes are respected and that their affairs are managed in the way they would want.


How to create an LPA


Creating an LPA is a straightforward process that can be done online or by post. The donor needs to choose an attorney and complete the relevant forms. The forms then need to be signed and witnessed by someone who is over 18 and not a relative of the donor or attorney.


Once the LPA is registered with the Office of the Public Guardian, it can be used by the attorney if and when the donor becomes unable to make decisions for themselves.


Conclusion


In conclusion, Lasting Powers of Attorney are essential for everyone in the UK. They allow a person to appoint someone they trust to make decisions on their behalf if they become unable to do so themselves. By planning ahead and creating an LPA, a person can ensure that their wishes are respected and that their affairs are managed in the way they would want. If you have not yet created an LPA, it is worth considering doing so to give yourself and your loved ones peace of mind for the future.


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