The Importance of Power of Attorney and Wills

None of us likes to imagine a day when we can no longer make decisions for ourselves. Yet planning ahead — calmly, and while we are well — is one of the kindest gifts we can give to the people we love.

A Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA) lets you choose someone you trust to act on your behalf if you ever lose the ability to decide for yourself. Without one, even a husband, wife or child has no automatic right to manage your accounts or agree to medical treatment on your behalf.

The two types of LPA

• Health and welfare — decisions about daily care, medical treatment and where you live.
• Property and financial affairs — paying bills, managing savings, pensions and property.

Registering an LPA with the Office of the Public Guardian takes time, so it is wise to begin well before it is needed. A properly drafted will is the natural companion to an LPA: it ensures your wishes are honoured and spares your family difficult guesswork.

If you are unsure where to begin, a solicitor who specialises in later-life planning can guide you through both documents in a single conversation — bringing real peace of mind to the whole family.