Lasting Power of Attorney

A lasting power of attorney allows someone you trust to make decisions for you if you become unable to make them yourself.

We advise on lasting powers of attorney, general powers of attorney and the duties of acting as an attorney, so that your finances, health and welfare are provided for in the future.

What is a Power of Attorney?

A power of attorney is a legal document by which you (the donor) appoint one or more people you trust (the attorneys) to make decisions on your behalf. A lasting power of attorney for property and financial affairs can be used while you still have capacity, with your consent, as well as after you lose it. A lasting power of attorney for health and welfare can only be used when you lack capacity to make the decision in question.

We make sure the documents are completed and signed correctly so that they can be registered.

Which Type of Power of Attorney Do You Need?

We advise on a range of options to suit your circumstances:

• Lasting Power of Attorney (Property and Financial Affairs): Managing property, banking, bills and investments.
• Lasting Power of Attorney (Health and Welfare): Decisions about care, living arrangements and medical treatment.
• General Power of Attorney: Short-term authority over financial matters, for example while you are abroad. It ends if you lose capacity.
• Enduring Power of Attorney (EPA): The predecessor to the LPA. EPAs made before 1 October 2007 can still be used, and must be registered when the donor is losing or has lost capacity. We can advise on registering and using an existing EPA.

Why Set Up a Power of Attorney?

Planning ahead with a lasting power of attorney means:

• Your affairs are managed by someone you have chosen.
• Your family avoids having to apply to the Court of Protection for a deputy, which is slower and more expensive.
• Decisions can be made promptly and in your best interests.
• Your finances continue to be managed if you lose capacity through accident or illness.

Your attorneys must act in your best interests and take account of any preferences or instructions you include.

Our Process

1. Initial Meeting: We discuss your situation and recommend the most suitable options.
2. Preparing the Documents: Clear, accurate drafting of your lasting power of attorney.
3. Signing and Witnessing: We arrange for the documents to be signed and witnessed in the correct order, including the certificate provider's confirmation that you understand the LPA and are not under pressure to make it.
4. Registration: We submit the LPA to the Office of the Public Guardian. It cannot be used until it has been registered.
5. Support for Attorneys: Guidance for your attorneys on their role and duties.

Who Should You Appoint?

Your attorney should be someone responsible and trustworthy, such as:

• A spouse, partner, or adult child.
• A close friend or family member.
• A professional solicitor if independent oversight is preferred.

We can help you choose appropriate attorneys and set clear guidance to ensure your wishes are followed.

Transparent Pricing for Power of Attorney Services

At Brewer Wallace Solicitors, we offer competitive fixed-fee pricing:

• One Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA): From £350 + VAT
• Both LPAs (Health & Financial Affairs): From £550 + VAT
• General Power of Attorney: From £250 + VAT
• Office of the Public Guardian Fee: £92 per LPA (payable separately)

For a personalised quote, contact us today.

Why Choose Brewer Wallace Solicitors?

• Clear Advice: We explain your options and their consequences in plain English.
• Clear Fees: We agree our fees with you before work begins.
• Local Offices: Appointments in Hull and Hornsea, and in Bridlington by arrangement.
• A Complete Service: From initial advice to registration with the Office of the Public Guardian.

Arrange a Lasting Power of Attorney

A lasting power of attorney can only be made while you have the mental capacity to make it. Contact us to discuss which type is right for you.

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