Do I Really Need a Lasting Power of Attorney? Here's What You Might Not Know

When you think of a Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA), you might imagine it’s something only the elderly or seriously ill need to worry about.

But the reality is that LPAs are powerful legal tools that every adult should seriously consider—no matter your age or circumstances.

What is a Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA)?

An LPA is a legal document that allows someone you trust (your "attorney") to make decisions on your behalf if you become unable to do so yourself. There are two main types:

•        ✅Health and Welfare LPA

•        ✅Property and Financial Affairs LPA

Why You Might Need One – Even if You’re Young and Healthy

It’s easy to assume that mental incapacity is only a concern for much later in life. But accidents, unexpected illnesses, and temporary conditions (like being in a coma) can strike at any time. Without an LPA in place, even your closest family members won’t have the legal authority to step in and help with your finances or healthcare decisions.

❌Common Misconceptions About LPAs

•        “My partner can just handle things.” Not necessarily. Without legal authority, banks and doctors are not obligated to take instructions from your spouse or partner.

•        “I’ll sort it later.” If mental capacity is lost, you can’t legally make an LPA. Instead, loved ones must go through a time-consuming, expensive court process to get a deputyship.

The Bottom Line

🌟Creating an LPA is not about giving up control—it’s about planning ahead to ensure you stay in control, even if life takes an unexpected turn.

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