Lasting Powers of Attorney.
It is important to highlight the significance of planning for the future and ensuring that you have the necessary tools in place, whilst you are mentally capable of doing so.
Whilst we recognise that mental incapacity is a difficult subject and one that many do not wish to consider, according to a report* published today by Solicitors for the Elderly, around 12 million Britons are at high risk of future incapacity and have not planned ahead, in reference to preparing a Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA).
So, now is the time to take matters into your own hands; prepare an LPA, whilst you have the control and the ability to decide who is to assist you and how you would like them to do so. This way your Attorneys can assist you with anything from selling your property, going to the bank and paying utilities to decisions regarding your health and welfare, such as where you will live.
Many people are frightened by the power that an LPA could potentially give their Attorneys. However, there are safeguards in place, which enable you to decide as to when the LPA comes into effect.
Unfortunately, if LPAs are not prepared and an individual loses mental capacity, the only way family members or friends would be able to assist them is to apply to the Court for a Deputy Order. The process whilst necessary can be arduous and costly.
If you are ready to take control and utilise the tools available to you now then, please do not hesitate to contact us here at Penmans and we will be more than happy to assist you in the preparation of your LPAs.
For more information as to how we can help contact:
stephanie.napier@penmanssolicitors.co.uk
