LASTING POWERS OF ATTORNEY
Powers of Attorney Services
Plan for the Future with Expert Powers of Attorney Services
A Power of Attorney (PoA) is a crucial legal document that allows you to appoint someone you trust to make decisions on your behalf when you’re unable to do so yourself. Whether due to illness, injury, or other unforeseen circumstances, having a Power of Attorney in place ensures that your affairs are handled according to your wishes. At Stenfield Solicitors our expert solicitors provide professional advice and services to help you establish a comprehensive and reliable Power of Attorney.
What is a Power of Attorney?
A Power of Attorney allows you to legally appoint someone, known as an "attorney," to act on your behalf in specific situations or for a range of decisions. This can be useful in cases where you become incapacitated, temporarily unavailable, or otherwise unable to manage your affairs. There are different types of Power of Attorney documents, each suited to different needs.
Types of Powers of Attorney
We offer guidance on creating several types of Powers of Attorney, including:
1. Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA)
An LPA is the most common form of PoA and is designed to cover both financial and personal matters if you lose the capacity to make decisions yourself.
Property and Financial Affairs LPA: This allows your appointed attorney to manage your finances, including paying bills, handling bank accounts, managing investments, and selling property.
Health and Welfare LPA: This allows your attorney to make decisions about your personal care, healthcare, and medical treatment if you are unable to do so. It can also include decisions on your living arrangements and end-of-life care.
2. Enduring Power of Attorney (EPA)
An EPA is similar to an LPA but was created before the introduction of LPAs in 2007. It covers financial and property matters only. If you created an EPA before October 2007, it may still be valid, but we can help you understand its scope and ensure your wishes are fully protected.
3. General Power of Attorney
A General PoA is typically used for a specific purpose, such as managing a particular business transaction or overseeing a temporary situation. It can be revoked at any time, and it ends if you lose mental capacity.
4. Health and Welfare Power of Attorney
This is a specialized PoA that focuses purely on healthcare decisions. Unlike the LPA for Health and Welfare, this document may only be activated when you are no longer able to make medical decisions yourself.
Why Do You Need a Power of Attorney?
Without a Power of Attorney, if you become unable to make decisions for yourself, a family member or someone you trust may have to apply to the court for a deputyship order, which can be a lengthy and costly process. Having an LPA in place is a proactive step that ensures:
Peace of Mind: Your health, financial, and personal affairs will be managed according to your specific wishes, even if you are no longer able to make decisions for yourself.
Control: You decide who makes the decisions on your behalf and what those decisions are. You can appoint one or more attorneys and specify their powers and limits.
Avoid Court Intervention: Without a valid PoA, your loved ones may need to apply for a deputyship in court, which can be both expensive and time-consuming. A PoA provides clarity and avoids the need for court action.
Flexibility: Powers of Attorney can be customized to suit your needs, whether you want to restrict the powers of your attorney or give them full authority.
How We Can Help
At Stenfield Solicitors, we offer a full range of Power of Attorney services, from drafting documents to providing ongoing legal support. Our process ensures that your documents are clear, legally sound, and tailored to your needs. Our services include:
Fact Finding: We will ask you to complete a questionnaire so we understand exactly who you wish to appoint at your Attorneys and what powers you wish them to have.
Consultation: We will meet with you to discuss your situation and explain the different types of Powers of Attorney. We’ll help you understand your options and make informed decisions.
Drafting the Documents: Based on your requirements, we will draft your Power of Attorney documents, ensuring they meet all legal requirements and reflect your intentions.
Registration: Lasting Powers of Attorney must be registered with the Office of the Public Guardian (OPG). We can assist with the registration process to ensure your PoA is legally valid and enforceable.
Review and Updates: Your needs may change over time, and we offer ongoing advice to amend your Power of Attorney documents as needed.
Advice on Attorneys’ Duties: We provide advice on the responsibilities and obligations of your attorneys to ensure they understand their roles and act in your best interests.
Why Choose Us?
Expert Legal Advice: With years of experience in drafting Powers of Attorney, we guide you through each step with professional, clear advice.
Personalised Service: We understand that every individual’s circumstances are unique, and we take the time to ensure your Power of Attorney reflects your wishes.
Peace of Mind: Knowing that your affairs will be handled by someone you trust in the event of incapacity provides peace of mind for both you and your loved ones.
Clear and Transparent Pricing: Our pricing for Power of Attorney services is competitive and transparent, so you won’t encounter hidden costs, our fixed price menu can be found here.
Get Started Today
Creating a Power of Attorney is an essential part of planning for your future. Don’t wait until it’s too late. Contact us today to schedule a consultation with one of our experienced solicitors, and ensure your financial and personal affairs are in safe hands.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between a Lasting Power of Attorney and an Enduring Power of Attorney?
An LPA covers both financial and health matters and must be registered with the Office of the Public Guardian before it can be used. An EPA only covers financial matters and does not require registration, but it must be used before the person loses mental capacity.
Can I change my Power of Attorney?
Yes, you can change or revoke your Power of Attorney at any time, provided you still have mental capacity to do so.
How much does a Power of Attorney cost?
The cost varies depending on the complexity of your needs. Contact us to discuss your requirements, and we will provide a clear, tailored quote. Examples of our fees can be found here.
Who can be my attorney?
Your attorney can be a trusted family member, friend, or professional. We can advise you on selecting an attorney who will act in your best interests and fulfil their responsibilities.
Secure your future today with a Power of Attorney that reflects your wishes. Contact us for expert advice and assistance in creating your Power of Attorney document.