Lasting Powers of Attorney Solicitors

Planning for a future where you may no longer be able to make your own decisions can be a difficult process.

At Ringrose Law, we understand how sensitive this can be.

A lasting power of attorney (LPA) allows you to appoint someone you trust to manage your affairs if illness, injury or age prevents you from doing so.

Our experienced LPA solicitors can provide the legal guidance and reassurance you need. We can help you make sure your wishes are protected and legally enforceable.

"Previously we lived in the Lincoln area but now live at Southampton. Since Ringrose already held our paperwork pertaining to the above we decided to use them again.

Bearing in mind we could not meet face to face we found the service given excellent.

We dealt with Joanna Storey. Her manner , at all times was professional but at the same time friendly & efficient. An excellent service, thank you."

- Helen

What is a Lasting Power of Attorney?

A lasting power of attorney is a legal document that empowers someone you trust, known as your attorney, to make decisions on your behalf if you're not able to.

By setting up an LPA while you are still capable, you ensure your personal, financial and healthcare preferences will be respected. This prevents costly court proceedings or family disputes later on.

What Does an LPA Cover?

You can tailor your LPAs to your specific needs. They typically cover:

• Financial matters: managing bank accounts, paying bills, handling investments and, if necessary, buying or selling property.
• Personal welfare: decisions about daily care, medical treatments, living arrangements and access to social services.

You decide the scope of authority granted to your attorney and can include specific instructions to guide their decisions.

Types of LPA: Health & Welfare vs Property & Financial Affairs

There are two types of LPAs in England and Wales:

Health & Welfare LPA

A Health & Welfare LPA authorises your attorney to make decisions about:

• Healthcare
• Medical treatment, and
• Personal living arrangements.

It only comes into effect if you lose the mental capacity to make decisions yourself.

Property & Financial Affairs LPA

A Property & Financial Affairs LPA gives your attorney authority to handle your finances.

You can authorise your attorney to use it;

1. Immediately with your permission, or
2. Only when you lack capacity.

Many people create both types at the same time to cover all eventualities.

Our solicitors will help you decide which best suits your situation. We'll also handle the paperwork, making sure it's correctly drafted and registered.

Why Use a Lasting Power of Attorney Solicitor?

An LPA is a powerful legal document. Mistakes can invalidate it, leaving you without protection when you need it most. Working with a specialist LPA solicitor offers peace of mind. We can:

• Ensure your LPA meets strict legal standards.
• Advise on choosing the right attorney and defining their powers.
• Draft bespoke clauses to reflect your personal circumstances.
• Register the document correctly, avoiding delays or rejection.

Who Needs a Lasting Power of Attorney?

Anyone over 18 who wants to safeguard their future should consider an LPA.

While often associated with later life, incapacity can occur at any age due to illness, accident or unforeseen circumstances. LPAs are particularly important if:

• You own property or have significant assets.
• You run a business.
• You have complex family arrangements or dependants.
• You want to avoid the expense and delay of a Court of Protection application.

The Dangers of DIY LPAs

It can be tempting to fill in LPA forms yourself or use cheap online services. However, DIY LPAs often contain errors, unclear instructions or incorrect witnessing. All of which can lead to rejection or legal challenges.

Without professional advice, you may:

• Grant powers you never intended.
• Fail to address complex financial arrangements.
• Omit essential safeguards for vulnerable relatives.
• Leave your family facing costly court applications to rectify mistakes.

Investing in expert legal advice now saves time, money and heartache later.

Why Choose Ringrose Law for Your LPA?

Ringrose Law has decades of experience in estate planning services and many of our solicitors are accredited by the Society of Trust and Estate Practitioners (STEP).

We recognise the emotional weight of planning for incapacity. As such, our approach combines legal expertise with empathy. We'll give you clear, jargon-free explanations and honest advice.

"Tracey Garner was very kind, polite and professional. She certainly knows her LPA law in the area she works in.

Very good service and felt very confident in the advice given. Would highly recommend."

- Nadine R