02 · Lasting Powers of Attorney
Plan for the unexpected.
Choose the people you trust to make decisions about your money, your home and your care if you're ever unable to, while you still have the choice.
Why it matters
Your family can't simply step in
Many people assume a husband, wife or child can take over if they become unwell. Without an LPA, they can't.
Without an LPA
- No one, not even your spouse, has automatic authority over your bank accounts or property
- Your family would need to apply to the Court of Protection to be appointed as your deputy
- That process is slower, more expensive and more stressful, and the court decides who acts
With an LPA
- The people you chose can act for you, without a court application
- Your wishes about your care, treatment and money are written down in advance
- Real peace of mind for you, and for whoever needs to step in
Two types of LPA
Most people make both
They cover different decisions, so we usually recommend having both in place. Couples each make their own, and often appoint each other.
Property and Financial Affairs
Lets your attorneys manage your bank accounts, pay your bills, deal with your pension and benefits, and buy or sell property on your behalf.
You can let them use it straight away with your permission, which helps if you're unwell, have mobility problems or spend time abroad. Or you can limit it to when you've lost capacity.
Health and Welfare
Lets your attorneys make decisions about your care, medical treatment, daily routine and where you live.
It can only be used once you're unable to make a decision yourself. You can also choose whether your attorneys can make decisions about life-sustaining treatment.
How it works
We handle the paperwork
-
Step 1
Choose your attorneys
We talk through who to appoint, how they should act together, and who could step in as a replacement.
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Step 2
We prepare the documents
Including any instructions and preferences you want your attorneys to follow.
Within 2 weeks -
Step 3
Signing, done properly
We guide you and your attorneys through signing in the right order, and can act as your certificate provider.
Within 4 weeks of approval -
Step 4
Registration
We register your LPAs with the Office of the Public Guardian. This can take several months, so it's best not to wait.
Sent within 1 week of signing
We send your draft LPAs within 2 weeks of having everything we need, and arrange signing within 4 weeks of you approving them. Once every signed page is back with us, we send them to the Office of the Public Guardian within a week.
Free first meeting
Who would you trust to decide for you?
We’ll talk through who to choose, which type you need and how to make sure your wishes are followed, in plain English and with a fixed fee.
Common myths, busted
What people often assume
"My next of kin can automatically make decisions for me."
"Next of kin" has no legal power over your money or care. Without an LPA, even a spouse would need to apply to the Court of Protection.
"LPAs are only for older people."
Capacity can be lost at any age, through an accident, a stroke or a sudden illness. An LPA can only be made while you're well.
Common questions
Your questions, answered
Can't see yours? Ask us at your free consultation, or call 020 8050 4201.
Can my attorneys be the same people as my executors?
Yes. Many people choose the same trusted people for both roles, but you don't have to. We'll help you think it through.
What is a certificate provider?
Someone who confirms you understand the LPA and aren't being pressured into making it. It's a safeguard for you, and we can act as your certificate provider.
Can I change or cancel my LPA later?
Yes. As long as you still have mental capacity, you can cancel an LPA or make a new one if your circumstances change.
Is there a fee to register?
Yes. The Office of the Public Guardian charges £92 to register each LPA, so £184 if you make both types. You pay this directly to them, and it isn't included in our fee. Some people on a low income or certain benefits can get a reduction or exemption.
Legacy Connect
There when your attorneys need us
Your registered LPAs stored safely, copies in the Legacy Connect Vault for the people you trust, and guidance for your attorneys when the time comes.
Put your LPAs in place while you can.
A no-obligation first meeting, face to face, by video or by telephone. A fixed fee, agreed up front.