What is Lasting Power of Attorney?
If you are to become mentally incapacitated, a Lasting (or Enduring) Power of Attorney allows someone you trust/rely on to make decisions on your behalf. These decisions can be with regards to anything from healthcare to finances and by having this in place, you have peace of mind that your affairs will always be looked after.

The person you choose is referred to as your attorney and it is possible to have more than one. However if you do have more than one you need to decide how they will work- will they make decisions about everything together or will they act separately. In most cases the attorneys act separately on most day to day matters, but then make more significant decision together.

There are two types of Lasting Powers of Attorney (LPA). One is LPA (property and affairs) which deals with your assets and related affairs, and the other is LPA (Personal Welfare) which is concerned with welfare, health and living conditions.

What Does This Mean?
It means that if/when a time comes that you are unable to make sensible decisions for yourself; there is someone already in place to do this for you, meaning your health, wellbeing and assets are safeguarded to you to some degree against any foul play.

How Do I Get One?
First of all you must be mentally capable when requesting a lasting power of attorney. It also must be signed by your attorney and yourself, in addition to a witness As a further measure someone else must also bear witness to the fact you are aware of the nature and implications of the LPA and have not been coerced into taking this decision.

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