Registration of Enduring Powers of Attorney

What is a power of attorney?

A power of attorney is a legal document which allows someone to make decisions for you - or act on your behalf - if you are no longer able to (or in respect of finances, you ask for assistance or no longer want to) make your own decisions. This gives you more control over what happens to you if you have an accident or an illness and are no longer able to make your own decisions (you ‘lack mental capacity’). You must be 18 or over and have mental capacity when you make your LPA. There are different types of power of attorney and you can set up more than one.

Health and welfare lasting power of attorney

Use this LPA to give an attorney the power to make decisions about things like:

  • your daily routine, for example washing, dressing, eating
  • medical care
  • moving into a care home
  • life-sustaining treatment
  • where you live
  • what you eat
  • who you have contact with
  • what kind of activities you take part in
  • It can only be used when you’re unable to make your own decisions.

Property and financial affairs lasting power of attorney

Use this LPA to give an attorney the power to make decisions about money and property for you, for example:

  • managing a bank or building society account
  • paying bills
  • collecting benefits or a pension
  • selling your home
  • investing money
  • arranging repairs to property

When can lasting powers of attorney be used?

It can be used as soon as it’s registered, with your permission. You can restrict the types of decisions your attorney can make or allow them to make all decisions on your behalf. If you set up a property and financial affairs LPA, your attorney must keep accounts and ensure their money is kept separate from yours. You can ask for details of how much is being spent and how much money you have; the details can be sent to your solicitor or a family member.

Specialist Solicitors for the Elderly and Vulnerable

Our specialists have many years’ experience in dealing with cases related to the elderly and vulnerable.

Solicitors for  the Elderly: Calderdale

Heather Nuttall is a full member of Solicitors for the Elderly.

Society of Trust and Estate Practitioner (STEP): Calderdale

Heather Nuttall is a full member of the Society of Trust and Estate Practitioners (STEP).

Together, we’ll work to give you peace of mind when it matters most. For more information about Powers of Attorney, please contact our specialists in Halifax, Huddersfield or Brighouse.

Download our leaflet on wills, probate, trusts and estates

Download our free guide to Lasting Powers of Attorney