Private Wealth

General and Lasting Powers of Attorney

Protecting Your Future by Choosing Who Can Act for You

Many people assume that if they lose mental capacity, their spouse or family members can simply step in and make decisions for them. Unfortunately, the law does not work that way. Unless you have Powers of Attorney in place, the people you trust will not have the automatic authority to manage your finances, deal with your property, or make decisions about your health and care.

Putting the right documents in place now gives you control, protects your wishes, and prevents avoidable stress for your family later on.

What Powers of Attorney Do

A Power of Attorney allows you to appoint trusted people (your attorneys) to make decisions on your behalf. These documents are not only for later life, illness, accidents and unexpected events can affect capacity at any age.

We advise that all adults consider putting Powers of Attorney in place so that loved ones can act quickly and lawfully if needed.

However, these are powerful documents, and it is important to understand exactly what you are agreeing to before signing. Our team will explain every step so you can make informed choices.

Types of Powers of Attorney We Advise On

General Power of Attorney

General Power of Attorney

Useful for short-term or specific tasks, such as signing documents during a house sale. These only apply while you still have mental capacity.
Lasting Power of Attorney for Property and Financial Affairs

Lasting Power of Attorney for Property and Financial Affairs

Allows your chosen attorney(s) to manage your finances, property and day-to-day financial matters.
Lasting Power of Attorney for Health and Welfare

Lasting Power of Attorney for Health and Welfare

Allows your attorney(s) to make decisions about care, treatment, daily routines and living arrangements if you lose capacity.
Advance Decision (Living Will)

Advance Decision (Living Will)

Sets out your choices about medical treatment in specific circumstances.
Lasting Power of Attorney for Business

Lasting Power of Attorney for Business

If you run a business, a separate Business LPA ensures someone you trust can manage daily decisions if you become unable to do so. This can be essential for keeping a business stable and operational.

If There Is No Lasting Power of Attorney in Place

Your family may need to apply to the Court of Protection for a Deputyship Order, which:

Takes significantly longer
Is more expensive
Requires ongoing reporting and administration

We can help with Deputyship applications where needed, but putting LPAs in place early prevents this stress.

Enduring Powers of Attorney (EPAs)

EPAs can no longer be created, but if you have one set up before October 2007, it may still be valid. Your attorney must register it with the Office of the Public Guardian when you begin to lose mental capacity.

We can assist with the registration process and all notices and documentation required.

How We Can Help

Every client’s needs are different, and we will talk you through all options in a straightforward and supportive way.

We advise on:

Which documents you need
The implications of appointing attorneys
Drafting clear instructions and preferences
Completing and registering the documents correctly

Speak to Our Powers of Attorney Team

For clear guidance on any type of Power of Attorney, please contact Claire Binyon or Habiba Ahmed.

We will help you choose the right protections for you and your family.

Call us on 01483 451900

Email Claire Binyon, Habiba Ahmed, or Stephen Bottomley.