Wollaston Associates
Experts in Estate Planning:
Wills, Trusts, Probate, Lasting Power of Attorney.
Call now: office 0161 526 6262 / mobile 07757 546 893
Call now: office 0161 526 6262 / mobile 07757 546 893
A Lasting Power of Attorney, often shortened to LPA, is a legal document that allows a person, known as the Donor, to appoint one or more trusted individuals (their Attorney or Attorneys) to make decisions on their behalf relating to their finances or health. Our LPA Service in Stockport is one of the most effective ways to safeguard your wishes and ensure you are protected if you become unable to make important decisions in the future.
Many people delay creating an LPA because they are unsure what it involves or why it is needed. This guide aims to provide clarity. If you have further questions, our team at Wollaston Associates is here to help.
The powers granted under an LPA can only be given by someone who has full mental capacity. This means an LPA must be created before it is needed, as once mental capacity is lost, it is too late to set one up.
If a person has already lost the capacity to make decisions, the only alternative is to apply to the Court of Protection to become a Deputy. This route is significantly more time-consuming and expensive compared to preparing an LPA in advance.
Although an LPA must be registered before it can be used, registration does not mean the Donor has lost capacity. Because the registration process can take several months, it is usually advisable to register the LPA early so it is ready when required.
Many people assume that a “next of kin” automatically has the right to make medical or financial decisions. In reality, the term has no legal power. Without an LPA in place:
An LPA in Stockport removes uncertainty, reduces the risk of disputes and gives your chosen Attorney the confidence to act in line with what you would want.
For example, when setting up a Health and Welfare LPA, the Donor can specify whether their Attorney has the authority to accept or refuse life-sustaining treatment.
Without a Health and Welfare LPA, key decisions for an incapacitated person are usually made by the NHS or local authority. Their decisions are based on professional judgment and may override any family preferences.
A Health and Welfare LPA allows your chosen Attorney to:
This is the only legal way to ensure someone you trust has the authority to make future health decisions for you.
A Property and Financial Affairs LPA gives your chosen Attorney the ability to manage your financial matters, which may include:
This type of LPA helps prevent financial hardship or mismanagement during vulnerable times.
An LPA is recommended for any adult who wants control over who manages their affairs in the future. It is particularly important for:
How long does a LPA take to register?
The Office of the Public Guardian typically takes several weeks to complete registration. Delays can occur if forms are completed incorrectly, which is why professional support is advisable.
Can I have more than one Attorney?
Yes, you can appoint multiple Attorneys to act together or independently. This provides flexibility and ensures decisions can still be made if one Attorney is unavailable.
Does an LPA remain valid if I move home or change circumstances?
Yes, an LPA remains valid as long as your details are up to date. Significant life changes may require updates, which a professional estate planner can advise on.
Have questions about LPAs? Speak to a qualified estate planner
At Wollaston Associates, we guide clients through the entire LPA process with clarity and care.
We are accredited by:
We are rated highly on Google for our professional, friendly service, and our advice is shaped by years of estate planning experience.
Putting an LPA in place protects you, your assets and your loved ones. If you would like support preparing your Lasting Power of Attorney in Stockport, our expert team is ready to help.
Office: 0161 526 6262 | Mobile 07757 546 893 | Email: martin@wollastonassociates.expert