They can be put in place so that when the time is right you can get help and make sure your best interests are served.

We know after helping thousands of clients that putting in place powers of attorney is one of the most important things you can do in life.

What is Lasting Power of Attorney?

A Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA) is a legal document that provides the authority for a person - the Attorney - to help you - the Donor - with your healthcare.

There are two types of LPA, which provide different authority to your Attorneys:      
 

• LPA (Property and Affairs) - your Attorney would be able to collect your pension, benefits or other income, pay your bills, deal with your bank or building society, complete tax returns, buy and sell property, make certain gifts.
• LPA (Personal Welfare) - this is similar to a Living Will or Advance Directive, and would allow your Attorney to complete tasks such as buy your clothes, decide if it is time for you to move home - maybe into residential or nursing care - give consent to or refuse life sustaining treatment on your behalf.

An LPA must be registered, either by the Donor or the Attorneys before it can be used. 

You can make one form of Lasting Power of Attorney without making the other.

Appointing an Attorney

There are lots of things you need to consider when considering powers of attorney and appointing an Attorney, and our experts will take time to explain your options.

Why use Access Legal from Shoosmiths?

• professional approach tempered with understanding and compassion
• dedicated Elderly and Vulnerable Client Team who are members of Solicitors for the Elderly
• specialist solicitors dedicated to providing a valued service in this difficult area 

Important things to consider

As well as planning what happens to you and your finances while you're alive, it's important to ensure your wishes are carried out on your death. The best way to make sure this happens is to make a Will. Our experts can arrange a Will to be set up at the same time as helping you with your LPA. For more information, please visit our page about making a Will.

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