Lasting Powers of Attorney (LPAs): Your Top 5 Essential Questions Answered
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:
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).
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.
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.
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.
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
DIY Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA) vs. Professional Service: What You Need to Know
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.
Choosing the Right Executor for Your Will: What you need to know
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.
Why you might want to use a professional to make your lasting powers of attorney - Part #2
Considering a Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA)? While DIY options exist, navigating the legal complexities can lead to critical errors.
Discover the top 5 reasons to choose a professional: from expert guidance on the Certificate Provider role and strategic attorney selection to precise wording, streamlined logistics, and the ultimate peace of mind that comes with robust, effective LPAs. Ensure your future is protected with confidence.
Why you might want to use a professional to make your lasting powers of attorney - Part #1
Considering a DIY Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA)? Just like a wonky fence, a small mistake in your DIY LPA can have unfixable, significant consequences. While the internet offers tempting shortcuts, discover why expert guidance is crucial to ensure your LPAs are robust and effective, ready to weather any storm life throws your way. Learn the hidden risks of DIY and why professional support offers true peace of mind.