Lasting Powers of Attorney (LPAs) allow you to appoint one or more trusted person, to handle your Property and Finance and Health and Welfare decisions on your behalf, known as your attorneys. The person making the LPA and therefore appointing the attorney(s) must have the relevant capacity, i.e. the ability to understand and make decisions in relation to the power of attorney.
Should You Make an LPA?
Whilst we would advise everyone to make an LPA, we are often approached by family members when their loved one has sadly lost capacity and the ability to look after their affairs but they didn’t make any Lasting Powers of Attorney. In this situation, those that wish to deal with their loved one’s affairs will need to make an application to the Court of Protection to be appointed as their deputy.
How Long Does it Take to Make an LPA?
As with most Court applications, the process can be lengthy and can often take between 6-12 months to complete. If your loved one has lost capacity don’t delay in starting the process.
Make an Application to the Court of Protection
If you wish to discuss the Court of Protection process or assistance with making an application please contact Jasmin Howlett on 01394 277 941 or jasmin@fairstep.co.uk, alternatively fill out our contact form, and we would be happy to discuss your requirements in further detail.
