Lasting Power of Attorney
“Having a Lasting Power of Attorney should be as common and natural as making a Will” Jack Straw, former Lord Chancellor.
As the average age of life expectancy continues to rise many people are concerned about who would look after their affairs if they were unable to do so themselves. If you lost your mental capacity through illness or accident and were no longer able to make decisions for yourself, who do you think would pay your bills, choose where you lived or what healthcare you received? Most people assume their loved ones would automatically take on this role and be able to act on their behalf.
This is simply not the case. The only way you can legally transfer this authority is by putting in place a Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA). An LPA allows you to choose someone you know and trust to act on your behalf as your Attorney.
There are two types of LPA and once they are registered at the Office of the Public Guardian they will confer the following powers to your Attorney;
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The Property and Financial Affairs LPA allows your Attorney to pay your bills, apply for and receive benefits, manage investments and buy or sell property all on your behalf.
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The Health and Welfare LPA allows your Attorney to make decisions about your personal welfare, including your diet and daily routine. More importantly, they can choose what medical treatment you receive and where you live.
Without these documents your family would have to stand by as the Government took control of your affairs, often charging you a fee to do so. Alternatively your family may apply at a substantial annual fee to the Court of Protection for the reduced authority of Deputy. Both can be avoided by putting your LPAs in place whilst you still have the mental capacity to do so.
WSL Ltd can help put your LPA in place and certify your instructions. Their specialist legal consultants are available for home visits daytime and evening, seven days a week and can advise you on how to structure your LPA to suit your specific needs. WSL are delighted to offer Silversurfers.com customers a discount on their home visit LPA service. Please click here to view the offer. Alternatively, to receive your free guide to LPAs please visit their website or speak to their friendly team direct on 020 8380 1082.
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