Powers of Attorney
What if I am unable to manage my affairs?
As we get older, everyday tasks like cooking, banking, and managing paperwork can become more challenging. Sometimes, a serious illness or accident can mean a younger person also needs support with these things.
By planning ahead, you can appoint trusted individuals to manage your finances and wellbeing if you’re ever unable to do so yourself, ensuring everything is taken care of.
This is called giving someone ‘Lasting Powers of Attorney’ or LPA. People usually appoint two attorneys—one for finances and another for health and wellbeing.
LPAs must be set up while you still have mental capacity, so it’s important to plan ahead. By doing so, you can ensure your affairs are handled by people you trust, no matter what the future holds.
But I have a spouse who will look after me
Many people believe that having a spouse or long-term partner means having a carer for life; sadly, this isn’t the case.
While there’s no questioning your partner’s devotion – or their ability to care for you should you ever need it, they cannot legally make decisions about your finances or healthcare without being appointed as your attorney.
Even if you are married or in a civil partnership, your spouse doesn’t have automatic rights.
Without an LPA in place, your partner will have no say over your care or how your finances are managed should you ever lose capacity. Responsibility for these decisions will automatically pass to the Court of Protection and your partner will face a long and difficult process to secure deputyship.
Who should I appoint as my LPAs?
You can appoint a friend, relative, or a professional as your attorney which allows them to act on your behalf should the need arise.
It’s important you choose people you trust who will put your best interests first.
It’s also important to consider the responsibilities that come with each role and appoint people appropriately. Someone who struggles with debt, for example, would be a poor choice for a financial LPA.
Get in touch today for help with LPA services and appointing attorneys.