A lasting power of attorney is a legal document that lets a person (the ‘donor’) appoint one or more people (known as ‘attorneys’) to help them make decisions on their behalf. There are two types of Lasting Power of Attorney, one that relates to the health and welfare and another that is related to property and financial affairs.

The donor must be 18 (or over) and have mental capacity (the ability to make your own decisions) to make their Lasting Power of Attorney.

As none of us can be certain of always be able to be lucid and due to uncertainties in regards to any accident that may occur, it is advisable that any person of legal age has a Lasting Power of Attorney registered allowing a person who we trust to take relevant decisions regarding our health and finances should we become incapable of doing it.

Health related decisions might be things such us our daily routine (washing, dressing, eating), medical care or decide if a life-sustaining treatment is acceptable for us.

In regards to making decisions about your finances, it might be things like managing a bank or building society account, paying bills, collecting benefits or a pension or selling your home.

You can of course choose to allow your “attorneys” to only use the Lasting Power of Attorney if and when you are unable to make your own decisions.

 

Our lawyers can help you to fill in the forms and register the Lasting Power of Attorney with the Office of the Public Guardian.

 

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