An LPA lets someone you trust make decisions for you if you ever can't. There are two types, they only work while you're alive, and they must be made while you still have capacity. Here's what that means in practice.
A lasting power of attorney (LPA) is a legal document that lets you appoint people you trust — your attorneys — to make decisions on your behalf if you lose the ability to make them yourself.
There are two types. A property and financial affairs LPA covers things like bank accounts, bills, pensions and selling your home. A health and welfare LPA covers medical treatment, care arrangements and where you live. Most people benefit from having both.
Two points are often misunderstood. First, an LPA is only valid while you're alive — it ends on death, when your will takes over. Second, you can only make one while you still have mental capacity. Leave it too late, and your family may face a lengthy and expensive Court of Protection application instead.
Your attorneys must always act in your best interests, and you can include guidance and restrictions in the document itself. Choosing attorneys carefully — and talking to them about your wishes — matters as much as the paperwork.
LPAs are registered with the Office of the Public Guardian before they can be used, which currently takes several weeks. Starting early avoids a gap when the documents are needed most.
This article is general information, not legal advice. Every situation is different — for advice on yours, speak to a solicitor.
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