Mental incapacity and decision-making is not exactly a pleasant topic, but it is important to understand how it works and where a UK power of attorney comes into play.
Why might someone else need to make decisions for you?
If someone has a heart attack, stroke, severe accident or develops dementia, they may rely on a trusted person to make important decisions for them. This is especially true when it comes to medical decisions and financial matters. To prepare for such situations and ensure that a trusted person is nominated to handle these affairs, it is helpful to create a UK power of attorney.
What is a UK power of attorney?
A UK power of attorney, abbreviated as LPA, is an easy way to nominate a person you trust to make important decisions for you. When you prearrange it via a power of attorney, this support will be in place and legally recognised should the worst happen and you struggle to make your own decisions. The LPA process can be handled by attorneys such as https://powerofattorneyonline.co.uk.
How can I make an LPA?
Anyone who is 18 or above and of sound mind can create an LPA. Once this power of attorney is in place, it can remain in effect permanently, unless you decide to change it for any reason. Many solicitors argue that an LPA is more important than a will as it manages a person’s affairs while they are alive. It is certainly something worth considering when planning for the future.