Estate Planning
Lasting Power of Attorney
A Lasting Power of Attorney ensures someone you trust can make decisions on your behalf if you become unable to do so yourself.
What Is a Lasting Power of Attorney?
A Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA) is a legal document that allows you to appoint one or more people you trust to make decisions on your behalf should you lose the capacity to make them yourself — whether through illness, injury, or age. There are two types: one covering your property and financial affairs, and another covering your health and welfare decisions. Without an LPA in place, your family would need to apply to the Court of Protection to manage your affairs — a process that is stressful, expensive, and can take many months. At Barrett-Smith & Doulton, we guide you through the entire LPA process, from choosing your attorneys to registering the documents with the Office of the Public Guardian.
Two Types of LPA
Property & Financial Affairs
Covers decisions about your bank accounts, investments, property, paying bills, and managing your financial affairs. Can be used while you still have capacity, with your permission.
Health & Welfare
Covers decisions about your medical treatment, where you live, your daily care routine, and life-sustaining treatment. Can only be used once you have lost capacity to make these decisions yourself.
Why You Need a Lasting Power of Attorney
- ✓Without an LPA, no one — not even your spouse — can automatically manage your finances if you lose capacity
- ✓The Court of Protection process is expensive (often £1,000+) and can take 6-12 months
- ✓An LPA lets you choose who makes decisions, rather than leaving it to a court-appointed deputy
- ✓You can set specific instructions and preferences for how your affairs should be managed
- ✓An LPA for Health & Welfare covers decisions about medical treatment, care homes, and daily routine
- ✓One in three people over 65 will need someone to manage their affairs at some point
What's Included
- ✓Expert guidance on choosing the right attorneys and replacement attorneys
- ✓Drafting of Property & Financial Affairs LPA, Health & Welfare LPA, or both
- ✓Advice on instructions and preferences to include
- ✓All paperwork prepared and checked for accuracy
- ✓Assistance with signing and witnessing requirements
- ✓Registration with the Office of the Public Guardian (OPG registration fee separate)
Transparent Pricing
Single LPA from £249 | Both LPAs (Property & Health) from £399 | Couples packages available
No hidden fees. OPG registration fee (currently £82 per LPA) is payable separately. All prices include a free initial consultation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Don't Wait Until It's Too Late
One in three people over 65 will need someone to manage their affairs. Put your Lasting Power of Attorney in place now, while you can.