When it comes to planning for the future, most people know about making a Will – but far fewer have heard of a Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA), or understand just how important it can be.
At Howay Legal, we help people put LPAs in place every day. Whether you’re preparing for your own future or supporting a loved one, setting up an LPA offers peace of mind that someone you trust can step in if ever needed.
A Lasting Power of Attorney is a legal document that allows you to appoint someone to make decisions on your behalf if you’re unable to do so yourself. This could be due to illness, an accident, or simply needing a bit of help as you get older. There are two types of LPA, and many people choose to have both in place.
The first is a Health and Welfare LPA, which covers decisions about your daily care, medical treatment, and even where you live. This type of LPA can only be used if you lose the ability to make decisions for yourself. The second is a Property and Financial Affairs LPA, which allows someone to manage your finances – things like bank accounts, bills, pensions, or even selling your home if needed. This one can be used while you still have mental capacity, if you choose to give permission.
It’s a common myth that LPAs are only for the elderly, but that couldn’t be further from the truth. Accidents or illnesses can happen at any age. Having an LPA in place early means that if something unexpected does happen, the person you trust is legally allowed to step in and help – without delay or stress.
If you don’t have an LPA and you lose the ability to make decisions, your loved ones may have to apply to the Court of Protection to gain the authority to act on your behalf. This can be a long, expensive, and emotionally draining process. It can also lead to someone being appointed who you wouldn’t have chosen yourself.
Setting up an LPA while you’re well and able is a proactive, thoughtful step. At Howay Legal, we’re here to make the process easy and clear. We’ll explain everything in plain English, handle all the paperwork, and make sure it’s properly registered with the Office of the Public Guardian.
Whether you’d prefer a home visit, a video call, or just a no-pressure chat to explore your options, we’re here to help. Taking the time to put an LPA in place now can make a big difference for you and your loved ones later on.
