Power of Attorney
What happens if you lose mental capacity?
Who will take care of your financial affairs and personal welfare?
You may be fully aware of the need to make a Will, but have you thought about a Lasting Power of Attorney?
We don’t like to think about losing our faculties but think about the confusion there would be if it’s not sorted and you or your partner become unable to make decisions and you can’t legally sign documents any more.
Expert Advice
Peace of mind that your welfare and finances will be taken care of, without any additional strain, stress or worry for loved ones please get in touch.
*Lasting Powers of Attorney are not regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA)
What’s a lasting power of attorney?
A lasting Power of Attorney gives legal authority to a person/people of your choice enabling them to make decisions and act on your behalf when you are unable to do so.
There are 2 types of LPA: Health & Welfare and Property & Finances.Why have a Health & Welfare LPA?
- Your loved ones (not the local Authorities) will be able to select and decide on the best care home for you if needed
- Your family (not doctors) will be able to decide on any life sustaining treatment
- Those closest (not unknown carers) will be able to specify your daily routine, dress and diet requirements
- You are able to define your care and treatment in your LPA whilst you are still able
Why make a Property & Finances LPA?
The person/people you trust can:
- Access your bank accounts and arrange to pay your bills for you
- Can collect your pension, other benefits and arrange to pay for all your essential needs
- If needed, then they can sell your home to pay for your essential care fees
What if you don’t make an LPA?
- Your family will not be able to make any decisions about your welfare or finances
- Loved ones will need to go through court; this is a very long and costly process
- Your family will still have limited power even when passed by court
- Your partner may find that they are unable to access joint bank accounts
- You may not be able to receive the care you need because your home can’t be sold
- Doctors (not your family) will be making decisions about any life sustaining treatment
- There can be increased upset and stress for your loved ones at an already difficult time
When should I make an LPA?
Making your LPA can only be made while you still have full mental capacity
“There’s no specific age when you should consider making a Power of Attorney. Young people can lose capacity through accidents. But if someone is diagnosed with a condition likely to cause loss of capacity, they may be well advised to think about who they want to make decisions for them when they can no longer do so.” Charity, Age UK
Will Writing
Protect your inheritance
How will your money and possessions be shared after death?
Power of Attorney
Health & Welfare LPA
Who will take care of your financial affairs and personal welfare?
Lifetime Mortgages
Options in a Nutshell
Tailored advice is essential to have an understanding of your options.