Securing Your Future: Understanding Lasting Powers of Attorney (LPAs)A Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA) is a vital legal document allowing you to appoint trusted individuals (attorneys) to manage your affairs if you lose mental capacity. It's your way of ensuring your wishes are respected and your future is protected. Our comprehensive guide answers the top 5 questions we hear most often about LPAs:

1. What is an LPA? There are two types: Property and Financial Affairs (managing money/property, usable before or after capacity loss) and Health and Welfare (decisions on daily routine, medical care, only usable after capacity loss).

2. What Happens If You DON'T Have an LPA? Without one, your loved ones must apply to the Court of Protection for a costly, time-consuming, and restrictive 'Deputyship' – meaning you lose control over who makes decisions for you.

3. Choosing Your Attorneys: 'Jointly' vs. 'Jointly & Severally' is CRUCIAL. 'Jointly' means all must act together (risky if one is unavailable), while 'Jointly and Severally' offers flexibility, allowing attorneys to act independently or together.

4. When Does an LPA Actually Come Into Effect? An LPA becomes legally valid and usable only once it's registered with the Office of the Public Guardian (OPG), a process that can take 10-16 weeks. Proactive registration is key.

5. The Attorney's Role: What Are Their Responsibilities? Attorneys must always act in your best interests, support your decisions, keep accurate records (for financial LPAs), and avoid personal benefit.

Key Takeaways: You can choose one or both LPA types. While you can complete forms yourself, professional guidance ensures accuracy. Attorneys can live abroad, but practicalities should be considered. At Westwood Estate Planning, we provide expert, empathetic guidance to ensure your LPAs are legally sound and truly reflect your wishes, offering lasting peace of mind. Ready to secure your future? Book a complimentary, no-obligation 15-minute chat with us today to discuss your specific situation: https://calendly.com/westwoodep/chat

Are you constantly worrying about what might happen to your family or your assets if something unexpected occurs?

At Westwood Estate Planning, our promise is simple: to help you 'Protect your loved ones, secure your peace of mind.' We simplify complex estate planning processes, ensure your wishes are honoured, and provide ongoing support so you can live with confidence today.

Discover how our empathetic and straightforward approach can remove your worries and secure your future

Considering a Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA) and wondering if professional help is right for you?

This article from Westwood Estate Planning offers complete transparency, clearly outlining who our empathetic, expert-led LPA service is meticulously designed for, and just as importantly, who it might not be the best fit for.

Discover if our comprehensive approach, focused on thoroughness, ongoing support, and lasting peace of mind, aligns with your needs.

Ready to explore your options with clarity and confidence? Book a complimentary, no-obligation 15-minute chat with us today.

Are you considering putting a Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA) in place yourself, perhaps using the government's online service?

While a DIY approach can seem appealing for its perceived simplicity and cost savings, it's crucial to understand the nuances and potential pitfalls. For most, the complexities involved mean that critical details are easily missed.

This guide explores the common issues we consistently see with DIY LPAs—from the critical decision of appointing attorneys 'jointly' vs. 'jointly and severally' to the logistical headaches of the strict signing process—and explains why professional guidance can make all the difference.

By the end, you'll have a clear understanding of your options and how to ensure your LPAs are truly effective, providing the lasting peace of mind you deserve.

Worried about the new pension Inheritance Tax rules coming in 2027?

From April 2027, unused pension funds will be included in your estate for Inheritance Tax purposes - potentially adding £34,000 to some families' tax bills. If you previously thought your pension was safe from IHT, these changes could significantly impact your estate planning.

At Westwood Estate Planning, we help you navigate these new rules through comprehensive estate valuations and strategic planning, including lifetime gifting and trusts.

Don't let uncertainty rob you of peace of mind - book a free 15-minute chat to understand how these changes affect you and explore your options.

Are you considering Lasting Powers of Attorney (LPAs) but feeling overwhelmed by the varying costs and wondering what you're truly paying for? Many find the world of LPA costs confusing, especially with tempting cheap online options.

This guide breaks down the elements influencing LPA costs, emphasizing that true value lies in professional guidance that prevents future problems and ensures your documents genuinely reflect your wishes.

At Westwood Estate Planning, we offer a clear, fixed-fee service that includes an in-depth consultation, expert drafting, and unique ongoing support for your chosen attorneys.

Beyond our fees, a standard £82 government registration fee applies per LPA, with potential remissions. We explain why 'cheapest isn't always best,' detailing common pitfalls of DIY or very cheap LPAs, such as incorrect attorney appointments or procedural errors, which can lead to significant future costs and distress.

Our aim is to provide robust, legally sound LPAs, giving you profound peace of mind. Ready for clarity? Book a free, no-obligation 15-minute chat to discuss your specific LPA needs and discover how Westwood Estate Planning can help you secure your future with confidence

Learn how to select the ideal guardian for your children in your will, covering responsibilities, key considerations, and legal steps for their future.

When making your Will, you carefully detail your wishes for your loved ones and assets. But have you considered who will actually carry out those crucial instructions after you're gone? This vital responsibility falls to your Executor.

Discover why choosing the right Executor is one of the most important decisions you'll make, ensuring your wishes are honoured and providing peace of mind for your family.