Lasting Powers of Attorney

Lasting Powers of Attorney are now the appropriate vehicle for ensuring that decisions relating to your Property and Financial Affairs or Health and Welfare can be taken by relatives, friends or professionals appointed by you should that become necessary.

"Thanks very much indeed for your prompt reply to my enquiries and especially for the clear explanations you have given"

It is no longer possible to create Enduring Powers of Attorney (which dealt with property and financial affairs only) but documents completed before 1 October 2007 remain valid.  Attorneys may still need legal assistance e.g. with registering them at the Court of Protection.

You may also leave another form of document which specifically addresses the issue of medical treatment called an Advance Decision or Living Will.  In order to be followed by the medical profession, it must also comply with certain formalities.  Particular care is required if you make a Lasting Power of Attorney - Health and Welfare and an Advance Decision to ensure that they do not contradict each other.

John Goodrich is a member of Solicitors for the Elderly.