In October 2007 the Government introduced the new Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA).

Many will be familiar with the old style Enduring Power of Attorney and provided this was signed and witnessed before 30th September 2007 it remains in force today.

However, anyone now wishing to appoint an individual on their behalf to manage their affairs will need to use an LPA.

There are two types of LPA (a) Property and Affairs and (b) Personal Welfare. The first document Property and Affairs deals with one’s financial matters such as opening, closing and using Bank accounts, dealing with Tax affairs etc. as well as buying and selling property. The second, a Personal Welfare LPA is used to specify how issues regarding health are dealt with. Important decisions about medical treatment and life support can be covered under this document.

We can advise you in relation to both documents and draw up a Lasting Power of Attorney that can help put your mind at rest so you will know that in the future if for any reason you are unable to manage your own affairs then those closest to you will be able to carry out your wishes.