Appointing a Lasting Power of Attorney gives you the safety and peace of mind that should you become unable to make decisions regarding yourself any longer, someone you trust will have the right to do so on your behalf. There are two different types of Power of Attorney you can appoint should you so wish to split the responsibility. One will dictate proceeding regarding your health and welfare, and the other will control financial and property affairs. This is particularly beneficial for example in a case where you may have two children, each best suited to just one of these areas. Alternatively you can allocate both sections to just one person.
It is important to remember that an LPA can only be appointed at a time where you are deemed to have a sufficient level of mental capacity to responsibly make this choice. Should you lose mental capacity and an LPA is not in place, those closest to you will have to apply to the courts for a deputyship order to make decisions on your behalf.
As a stringent safeguard against the possibility of any abuse or coercion, there are a very specific set of criteria that must be met in order for powers of attorney to be implemented.
Our expert Wills & Probate lawyers are able to assist you with preparation of:
- a property and financial affairs lasting power of attorney;
- a health and welfare lasting power of attorney, accompanied by an advanced decision directing whether life sustaining treatment should be given; and
- a business power of attorney.
We can also help with applications to the Court of Protection:
- for the appointment of a deputy in cases where a loved one loses mental capacity before a lasting power of attorney can be made;
- to resolve issues on which attorneys or deputies may disagree; and
- to seek permission to take steps, or to make decisions, not covered by a lasting power of attorney or deputyship order.
Additionally if you feel it the most appropriate nomination, we can act as an attorney or a deputy on your behalf.
Advising families throughout Tenterden, Kent and beyond
We have offices in Tenterden, Chatham, Tonbridge, Maidstone and Gravesend where we can meet you to discuss your requirements.
We can also offer meetings at your home, in hospital or in a care facility, and in exceptional circumstances a telephone appointment can be arranged via skype.
How much does it cost?
An initial appointment to discuss your requirements can be arranged from £150 plus VAT. After that we can agree funding arrangements to suit your budget.
Get in touch with our lasting powers of attorney solicitors in Tenterden, Kent
Call us on 01580 762248 if you need our help. Alternatively, please complete our Contact Us form and we will be in touch as soon as possible.