Loss of mental capacity can affect anyone at any time regardless of age.  Over 1.5 million people in the UK are currently living with dementia, 40,000 under 65. Others suffer a loss of mental capacity following a stroke or serious accident.

Even if you in good health now it is worth taking a moment to consider who would manage your personal and financial affairs if you could no longer make decisions for yourself. Having a Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA) in place is a bit like having life insurance, you hope it won’t be necessary but you are covered if you need it.

You can only set up an LPA while you have the mental capacity to do so.  Without it relatives will have to go through the costly and often drawn out process of applying for a deputyship through the Court of Protection to enable them to access your finances, insurance policies, manage your tax and even pay for your care.

Do I need to use a solicitor to set up a Lasting Power of Attorney?

Anyone over the age of 18 can have a Lasting Power of Attorney in place. You can go online to apply yourself but the cost of having an LPA professionally drawn up is worth the risk of making a mistake or leaving out important information.

A Lasting Power of Attorney is a powerful legally binding document and we recommend seeking a solicitor’s advice when

•    you are unsure about the process of applying for a LPA
•    there are complex assets involved such as a business or property
•    the family are not in agreement

What to do next

It takes up to 10 weeks to register an LPA so it is better to get the ball rolling sooner rather than later. Our expert team will be happy to talk through the process and costs with you and answer any queries you may have. Please call us on 0118 957 4018 or complete the enquiry form below.