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

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