Powers of Attorney
A Power of Attorney ensures someone you trust can step in and help when you need it most.
Life can change suddenly. Illness, injury, or age can make it difficult or impossible to manage your own affairs. A Power of Attorney ensures someone you trust can step in and help when you need it most.
Why It Matters
Without a Power of Attorney:
- Bills may go unpaid, causing stress for you and your family.
- Loved ones may struggle to manage your finances or care decisions.
- Even young people can face unexpected incapacity due to accidents or illness.
- Families can face confusion and worry at an already difficult time.
Putting a Power of Attorney in place gives you peace of mind that your affairs will be handled properly if you can’t manage them yourself.
Choosing Your Attorney
You can appoint a friend, family member, or professional. Choose someone you trust to act in your best interests. Many people appoint more than one attorney for added protection and balance.
Types of Powers of Attorney
Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA) for Property & Financial Affairs
Allows your chosen attorney to help with things like:
- Paying bills
- Managing bank accounts
- Selling or maintaining property
- Handling investments or business matters
You can set limits if you wish.
Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA) for Health & Welfare
Covers decisions about:
- Where you live
- Day-to-day care
- Medical treatment
- Moving into care if needed
This can only be used if you lose mental capacity.
General Power of Attorney (GPA)
A short-term option that lets someone manage your financial affairs while you still have capacity. It ends automatically if you lose capacity.
Registration and Revoking
LPAs must be registered before they can be used. You can cancel them at any time as long as you still have mental capacity.
This is general guidance only. Proper planning should always be based on personalised advice.
