Planning for the future isn’t always easy, especially when it involves thinking about what might happen if you’re no longer able to make decisions for yourself. Putting the right legal protections in place now can save your loved ones a great deal of stress later. One of the most effective ways to do this is by setting up a Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA).
At Ison Harrison, our Private Client team helps individuals and families across Yorkshire and beyond to understand their rights and make confident decisions about LPAs. Here’s what you need to know.
What Is a Lasting Power of Attorney?
An LPA is a legal document that allows you to appoint a person or people you trust (known as your ‘attorneys’) to make decisions on your behalf if you lose the capacity to do so yourself. This could be due to illness, accident, or age-related conditions such as dementia.
There are two types of LPA, and each covers different aspects of your life:
- Health and Welfare LPA
This type of LPA gives your attorney the authority to make decisions about:
- Your daily routine (e.g. washing, dressing, eating)
- Medical care and treatment
- Moving into a care home
- Life-sustaining treatment
It can only be used when you’re no longer able to make these decisions yourself.
- Property and Financial Affairs LPA
This allows your attorney to manage your financial matters, including:
- Paying bills
- Managing bank accounts
- Collecting benefits or pension
- Selling your home, if necessary
Unlike the Health and Welfare LPA, this can be used as soon as it’s registered (with your permission), even if you still have mental capacity. This is useful if you have a condition that makes it difficult to visit the bank or talk on the phone.
Why Might You Need an LPA?
Many people assume that their spouse or children will automatically be able to step in if something happens. Unfortunately, that’s not the case. Without an LPA, your loved ones may need to apply to the Court of Protection (a costly and time-consuming process) just to make basic decisions on your behalf.
Setting up an LPA ensures:
- Peace of mind – You choose who makes decisions for you.
- Avoids delays – Your attorney can act quickly when needed.
- Protects your interests – Your wishes are respected, even if you can’t express them.
How We Can Help
At Ison Harrison, we understand that setting up an LPA can feel daunting. Our experienced solicitors will guide you through the process step by step, making sure everything is tailored to your needs and properly registered with the Office of the Public Guardian.
We offer:
- Clear, practical advice with no legal jargon
- Fixed-fee LPA packages
- Home visits or remote appointments
- Support for individuals, couples, and families
Whether you’re planning ahead or helping a loved one, we’re here to make things easier.
Take the First Step Today
Don’t wait until it’s too late. Putting an LPA in place now could make all the difference later.
Contact our Barnsley branch now to speak to a member of our Wills and Probate team about how to set up an LPA. Call us on 01226 337840 or email newbusinessenquiries@isonharrison.co.uk.
