Understanding Lasting Powers of Attorney: Safeguard Your Decisions Before It's Too Late

Thinking about a time when you might not be able to make your own decisions isn’t easy. But planning for it? That’s one of the smartest and most caring things you can do—for yourself and your loved ones.

A Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA) gives someone you trust the legal authority to make decisions on your behalf if you become unable to. At LCS Legal, we help clients across the UK understand, set up, and register LPAs that reflect their personal wishes and priorities.

Here’s what every adult should know.

What Is a Lasting Power of Attorney?

An LPA is a legal document that allows you (the donor) to appoint someone you trust (an attorney) to make decisions if you're ever unable to do so due to illness, injury, or age-related decline.

There are two types:

• Health and Welfare LPA: Covers decisions about your medical care, daily routine, and living arrangements.
  

• Property and Financial Affairs LPA: Covers managing bank accounts, paying bills, selling property, and handling investments.
  

You can choose to set up one or both.

Why It's So Important to Act Early

An LPA must be set up while you still have the mental capacity to understand and approve it. Once that’s lost, it’s too late—and the alternative is a costly, time-consuming legal process through the Court of Protection.

Setting up an LPA gives you control and peace of mind. It means your future is guided by someone you trust, not a stranger or overburdened legal system.

Real-Life Scenarios Where LPAs Make a Difference

• After a Stroke: A client was able to step in immediately to manage their parent’s finances and healthcare needs without delay.
  

• Dementia Diagnosis: With an LPA already in place, one family avoided court battles and focused on supporting their loved one.
  

• Sudden Accident: A young professional in their 30s was hit by a car—because they had an LPA, their partner could handle urgent decisions during recovery.
  

Top Benefits of Having an LPA

• Avoid family conflict: You choose who makes decisions, rather than leaving loved ones to guess or disagree.
  

• Protect your finances: Your attorney can act quickly to manage bills, savings, or business matters.
  

• Ensure your health wishes are respected: From medical treatments to care preferences, your voice is heard.
  

Myths That Stop People (and Why They're Wrong)

"I’m too young for this." LPAs aren’t just for the elderly. Illness or accidents can happen at any age.

"My spouse can decide for me anyway." Legally, they can’t—not without an LPA. Even close family members need formal permission.

"I’ll do it when I need it." hat’s too late. LPAs must be made before you lose capacity.

How LCS Legal Can Help

Our team takes the confusion out of setting up an LPA. We explain your options in plain English, help you make informed choices, and handle the legal process from start to finish.

We believe in making it easy to do the right thing for your future.

Don’t Wait Until It’s Too Late

Protect your decisions, your assets, and your peace of mind. Book a consultation with LCS Legal today to start the process of setting up your Lasting Power of Attorney with clarity and confidence.