Why is it important to have Lasting Powers of Attorney?
16th March 2025
Author EditorPosted on Categories Legal
By Bennett Oakley Solicitors.
Planning for the future is essential, yet many people overlook the importance of protecting their interests should they become unable to make decisions for themselves. Whether due to illness, injury, or age-related conditions, losing the ability to manage financial and personal affairs can create significant challenges for both individuals and their families. A Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA) ensures that your wishes are respected and that the people you trust have the legal authority to act on your behalf when needed.
What are Lasting Powers of Attorney?
Lasting Powers of Attorney (often referred to as LPAs) are legal documents that allow you to appoint the people you trust to make decisions on your behalf in relation to health and welfare and property and finances.
Why is it important to have LPAs?
• Lasting Powers of Attorney ensure that if you were to lose capacity in the future, or become unable to manage your own affairs, the people you trust are able to assist you at this time.
• Within the documents, you can include specific instructions and preferences, to ensure that your wishes are legally documented.
• It is important to get LPAs in place to give you peace of mind, to know that once they have been registered, they can be used when required.
What are the risks of not having LPAs?
• Without having LPAs in place, you are not able to control who makes decisions on your behalf, if you are not capable of making them yourself.
• If you do not have LPAs in place, this could make it difficult for your family to manage your finances and healthcare.
• If you lose mental capacity and do not have an LPA for property and finance in place, your family would have to apply to the Court of Protection to become your deputy, which can be a very lengthy and expensive process, delaying urgent decisions about your property and finances.
• If you lose mental capacity and don’t have an LPA for health and welfare in place, any decisions about your health or care will be made by the care professionals looking after you. If appropriate, they must consult your family (or anyone else with an interest in your welfare) when deciding what is in your best interests – but the final decision lies with them.
How Bennett Oakley Solicitors can help
At Bennett Oakley Solicitors, we provide expert guidance on drafting, signing, and registering your Lasting Powers of Attorney. Our team will handle the full process for you, ensuring that your documents are legally sound and tailored to your needs.
Our priority is to give you peace of mind — ensuring that your affairs are managed according to your wishes, both now and in the future. To discuss your Lasting Power of Attorney and safeguard your future, get in touch with our expert team today.