A Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA) is a document that allows you to appoint people you trust to act as your attorneys. This enables them to either assist you in making decisions, or instead to make decisions on your behalf if it becomes necessary, for example due to conditions such as Alzheimer's, dementia or a stroke.

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You can appoint family members, friends or solicitors to this role. It is possible to appoint one person to act, or to name more than one person and specify different areas that each is responsible for. It is also possible to specify that decisions should be made jointly by both attorneys.

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There are two different types of LPA:

• health and welfare - this gives the attorneys authority to make decisions on your behalf regarding personal matters such as your daily routine, medical care, moving into a care home and consenting to life-sustaining medical treatment

• property and financial affairs - this entitles the attorneys to make decisions on your behalf regarding financial matters such as managing a bank account, paying bills, collecting benefits or selling your home.

In the event of incapacity, if there is no LPA in place, then no-one can access the incapacitated person's accounts or deal with their affairs. A relative would need to apply to the Court for authority to do so, which is a lengthy and expensive process.

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We can also provide advice regarding existing Enduring Powers of Attorney documents and assist in the registration of them should it become necessary.

Seymours offer a sympathetic and friendly service in respect of LPAs and EPAs and can arrange a home visit if required.

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To find out more about our fees click here​.