Lasting Power of Attorney

An LPA can provide you with reassurance knowing that you have selected an individual to manage your affairs for you, should you become unable to do so. In the LBA you can set out the extent of the power your elected Attorney has. Alternatively, you may wish to appoint Paddle & Cocks as your Professional Attorneys, should the need arise. Our team can assist you with drafting an LPA that is specifically in line with your wishes.

There are two types of LPA

Property and Financial LPA - This will give your Attorney the power to deal with your property and financial affairs on a day to day basis - for example pay your bills. This would also allow them to sell your home should you require funds for future medical care.

Health and Welfare LPA - Under this type of LPA your Attorney will have authority to make decisions surrounding your health and welfare if you become unable to do so. For example, they could decide which medical treatment you will accept and administer medication. They can also be given the power to decide whether to discontinue treatment that can prolong your life.

Why make an LPA?

If you do not have an LPA and you become mentally incapacitated, anyone can apply to the Court of Protection to become your Deputy and manage your affairs. The appointed Deputy may not be the person you would have chosen yourself, and you will not have a say on the extent of their powers or how you wish to have them exercised. The person may not know what your wishes are in terms of where you live and who is looking after you.

By having an LPA in place, you retain some control over your future finances and health, which will provide comfort for many people, not least yourself. Our specialist solicitors have many years’ experience in drafting LPAs, and by taking the time to listen to your requirements you can be confident that we will prepare your LPA in a way that clearly expresses your own wishes.

Another option available to you is to have in place an Advance Decision (also known as a ‘Living Will’). This document can set out your wishes regarding medical treatment if you are not able to express those wishes yourself.