If you had a stroke, a serious accident or developed dementia, you might not be able to make decisions for yourself, but things like paying bills or choosing medical care would still need to be handled. Many people think their partner or family could automatically do this for them, but that’s not true. No one has the legal power to act for you unless you give it to them in advance.
What Is a Lasting Power of Attorney?
A Lasting Power of Attorney is a legal document that lets you choose someone you trust to make decisions for you if you can’t. You can make an LPA online through the official GOV.UK website. There are two types: one for money and property, and another for health and care. An LPA only works while you are alive, and it stops once you pass away.
Why an LPA Is Important
If you don’t have an LPA and lose mental capacity, no one can make decisions for you unless a court gets involved. This can take time and cause stress for your loved ones. With an LPA, you stay in control because you decide who will act for you. You can choose one or more attorneys, and they can act together or on their own. You can also decide whether your health attorney can make choices about life-sustaining treatment. For more advice on LPAs, firms like https://powerofattorneyonline.co.uk/ can help.
Making an LPA gives peace of mind that someone you trust can look after your affairs if you can’t do it yourself.
