Keep you and your interests safe with a Lasting Power
of Attorney
Give those you trust the legal powers to make decisions on your behalf, no matter what happens with our fully supported Lasting Power of Attorney Service.
What is a Lasting Power of Attorney?
A Lasting Power of Attorney, also known as an LPA is a document that allows you to appoint one or more people that you trust to act or make decisions on your behalf in the event that you lose physical or mental capacity. The people that you appoint are known as attorneys, and they must always include you as much as possible in the decision making and always act in your best interest.
There are two types of Lasting Power of Attorney:
- Health and Welfare
- Property and Financial Affairs
Lasting Power of Attorney terms explained
LPA for Health and Welfare
This document gives your attorneys the right to accept or refuse life-sustaining treatments and the right to talk to doctors on your behalf.
LPA for Property and Financial Affairs
This document gives your attorneys the power to manage your bank accounts, investments, savings etc. Also, they are able to pay bills on your behalf, collect your pension and buy/sell property as required.
We'll take care of everything, giving you complete peace of mind
1. Speak with us
Chat with our friendly team to explore your options and take your Lasting Power of Attorney instructions.
2. We prepare your documents
Our professional team draw up your documents and sends them to you and your attorneys for signing.
3. Documents sent to OPG
Your signed documents are submitted to the Office of the Public Guardian (OPG) to be registered.
Additional information on LPAs
You can appoint between one and four attorneys aged over 18. It is recommended to have at least two so that should one move away or be unable to act, you don’t need to create new documents.
Regisering your LPA can take up to 20 weeks to be registered with the OPG. This assumes there are no mistakes. Futura Planning’s fully supported service takes care of everything from start to finish.
We are fully qualified members of The Society of Will Writers and as such, you can be assured of receiving a professional service.
What might happen if you don’t have Lasting Power of Attorney?
Many assume their loved ones would automatically be able to make decisions on their behalf should something unforeseen happen, yet often this is not the case. Injury, serious illness etc can cause a loss of mental capacity, temporarily or permanently. If that should happen…
The state decides how and where you live
Bank accounts and finances could be frozen
Doctors could ignore your wishes
It would not be possible to sell your house
Family members would need a costly court order
Compare the different ways the two LPAs help
Health and Welfare
This LPA allows those you trust to have the power to manage health and wellbeing matters when you most need it. This includes:
- Making choices over accepting or refusing life-sustaining treatment
- Power to decide where you live including whether you remain at home or in a care home
- Managing your day to day routine including diet, exercise, medicines etc
Property & Financial Affairs
This LPA gives trusted people the power to handle your property and financial matters when you woud like them to, or when you can no longer do so. This can include:
- Paying bills for you, or collecting your benefits or pensions
- Managing investments, savings and bank accounts
- Maintaining, selling or buying property
How would you like to receive the Lasting Power of Attorney service; in person, full advice online or Fast Track online?
Many of our clients prefer to sit down face to face in the comfort of their own home to discuss their options and receive our advice. Others prefer to have a fully guided consultation online via Zoom or Teams.
For those that only require a very straightforward solution, and do not need full advice and recommendations, then we can offer a reduced price Fast Track service online.
In Home LPA Service
Our most popular LPA service. We meet you in your home at. a time convenient for you.
We explore your circumstances, the attorneys you are thinking of appointing as well as looking at all the options available to you.
The documents are then carefully prepared before overseeing the signing and witnessing. We arrange for all attorney signings, then, when everything is complete we submit the registration to the Office of the Public Guardian.
Guided LPA Video Service
Full service guided LPA service via video appoinmtents using Zoom or Teams.
We arrange an online meeting to discuss and advise on all options available to you in your particular circumstances.
The documents are then carefully completed and we oversee signing and registering the LPAs with the Office of Public Guardian.
Fast Track LPA Service
Ideal when detailed advice is not required and you’re happy to receive this service remotely, with the completed LPA documents being sent to you electronically as PDFs, or, alternatively receiving paper copies using our optional‘Print and Post’ service.
You will also receive a detailed PDF to follow that explains the signing and witnessing procedure
FAQ - Frequently Asked Questions about Lasting Power of Attorney
Can anyone create a Lasting Power of Attorney?
Yes, anybody 18 years old or older that has mental capacity can create a Lasting Power of Attorney.
When does an LPA come into effect?
For Property and Financial Affairs LPAs, it can come into effect as soon as it’s registered, with your permission, else it will only come into effect once you no longer have capacity.
The Health and Welfare LPA only comes into effect when you’re no longer able to make decisions for yourself.
What decisions can my attorney make for me?
This will depend on the type of LPA:
– Property and Financial Affairs LPA: your attorney can manage bank accounts, pay bills, collect benefits, or sell your home.
– Health and Welfare LPA: your attorney can make decisions about your daily care, medical treatment, and living arrangements, but only if you’re unable to do so yourself.
Can I cancel my LPA?
Yes, you can cancel your LPA at any time as long as you have the mental capacity to do so. You need to inform your attorney(s) and notify the OPG by sending the original LPA together with a Deed of Revocation.
What happens if I don’t have an LPA?
If you lose the ability to make decisions without an LPA in place, your loved ones would need to apply to the Court of Protection to become your deputy. This process is more time-consuming, expensive, and can be emotionally taxing.
What is a Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA)?
An LPA is a legal document that lets you appoint one or more people (known as ‘attorneys’) to help you make decisions or to make decisions on your behalf. This can be useful if you become unable to make your own decisions in the future due to illness or incapacity.
Who can I appoint as my attorney?
You can appoint anyone you trust, such as a family member or friend. They must be over 18 and not bankrupt if you’re setting up a Property and Financial Affairs LPA. It’s crucial to choose someone who understands your wishes and can handle the responsibility.
Why should I consider setting up an LPA?
Setting up an LPA ensures that someone you trust can manage your affairs if you’re unable to. Without an LPA, your loved ones might face lengthy and costly court procedures to gain control over your affairs.
Are there different types of LPA?
Yes, there are two types:
– The Property and Financial Affairs LPA: this allows your attorney to make decisions about your money and property.
– The Health and Welfare LPA: this allows your attorney to make decisions about your healthcare and personal welfare.
How much does it cost to register an LPA?
Currently, it costs £82 to register each LPA. If you’re on a low income or receive certain benefits, you might be eligible for a reduction or exemption from the fee.
Where can I get more information or help with setting up an LPA?
You can find detailed information and the necessary forms on the UK Government’s website
Additionally, you might consider seeking advice from a trained professional who specialises in LPAs. We are always happy to advise on LPAs.