Thinking about Making Your Lasting Power of Attorney?
By making a Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA) you can appoint someone you trust to make decisions for you if the need arises. This is the right thing to do if you are concerned that a time may come when you are unable to make decisions for yourself. This can come about through dementia, illness, injury, stroke.
Warning signs might centre on forgetfulness e.g. you cant recall names of your grandchildren or where you have put your car keys. It might be that your spouse is concerned that you are not remembering things s/he thinks you ought too.
It can be too late to make your Lasting Power of Attorney
It is important make your LPA in good time as it can be to late to make one.You cannot make one if you have lost the necessary mental capacity. Somebody i.e. the Certificate Provider has to certify you understand what you are doing by making the LPA and what powers you are giving to your nominated attorney or attorneys.
The alternative can be costly, stressful and take a long time to arrange. You can make a Health & Welfare LPA or a Property & Financial Affairs LPA or both. It depends on your circumstances and your wishes. Get the right advice and work out what is right for you.
What actually happens if you lose capacity?
- sole and joint bank accounts are frozen
- no bills payable from frozen accounts
- problems dealing with property
- decisions on health matters can’t be made
- 5-8 months or longer to get legal authority to manage affairs
The Court of Protection
If you lose capacity it may be necessary to apply to the Court of Protection to have a deputy appointed to deal with everyday financial matters.This is a slow and expensive process and there is also an annual fee in most situations of £320 per year. If you use a lawyer it will cost a lot more again.
Lasting Power of Attorney Service in London
For people living or working in and around London you can make your LPA by seeing Bill Ryan by appointment at Farringdon Chambers in London Bridge or by asking for the home visit service. Friendly advice, guidance and support is available whichever way you choose. As always the consultation is free and carries no obligation. [Read More about the London LPA service]
Lasting Power of Attorney Service for Bath Bristol & Wiltshire
If you live in or around Bath, Bristol or Wiltshire the home visit service is available at no extra cost. You can get all the advice and support you need to make your Lasting Power of Attorney knowing you are in safe hands. The initial consultation is free and without obligation.
Having a Lasting Power of Attorney is easier, cheaper and less stressful than risking having to rely on the Court of Protection.