Life can change in an instant, leaving you and your loved ones vulnerable without a plan. In the UK, a Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA) is an essential legal tool that ensures your wishes are respected and your family is protected if you lose the capacity to make decisions. Despite its importance, over 70% of UK adults have not set up an LPA, leading to unnecessary stress, delays, and financial burdens.

An LPA is not just for the elderly—it’s for anyone who values peace of mind. With the right guidance, setting one up is simpler and faster than you think.

What is an LPA and Why Does It Matter?

An LPA allows you to appoint someone you trust to make decisions on your behalf if you’re unable to. There are two types:

1. Property & Financial Affairs LPA
   
   • Manages finances like paying bills, handling accounts, and selling property.
2. Health & Welfare LPA
   
   • Covers decisions about medical care, daily living, and where you reside.

Without an LPA, your family may face costly court applications and delays, leaving them powerless in critical moments. Moreover, the absence of a Health & Welfare LPA can lead to medical professionals making life-altering decisions without consulting your loved ones, potentially resulting in disastrous outcomes.

Real-Life Example: During the COVID-19 pandemic, there were multiple cases where doctors issued Do-Not-Resuscitate (DNR) orders without consulting patients or their families. For instance, the Parliamentary Health Service Ombudsman revealed that in at least 13 cases, patients were denied proper consultation, leading to distress and potentially avoidable outcomes. In one tragic case, a family was not informed of a DNR decision, leaving them powerless to advocate for their loved one, whose condition might have improved with proper care.

This highlights how vital it is to have a trusted individual legally empowered to make decisions on your behalf, ensuring your wishes are respected and your care is prioritized.

The Consequences of Not Having an LPA

Imagine this: Jane, a 62-year-old widow, suffered a stroke that left her unable to communicate. Her daughter, Emma, assumed she could manage her mother’s finances and medical care. However, without an LPA, Emma had no legal authority to act.

• Emma was forced to apply to the Court of Protection, a process that took eight months and cost over £3,000.
• During this time, utility bills went unpaid, medical decisions were delayed, and Jane’s care suffered.
• Ultimately, the court appointed an outsider to manage Jane’s affairs, leaving Emma helpless and devastated.

This nightmare could have been avoided with a simple LPA.

How an LPA Protects You

With an LPA in place, you gain:

• Control Over Your Future: Choose who will act on your behalf.
• Clarity for Loved Ones: Avoid family disputes and confusion.
• Immediate Action: Empower your attorneys to act quickly when needed.
• Financial Savings: Avoid costly court applications and legal fees.

An LPA removes uncertainty and ensures your loved ones are protected from unnecessary stress.

Why People Delay

Many people believe they don’t need an LPA because they’re too young or healthy. Others assume their family can step in automatically. These misconceptions can lead to devastating consequences when life takes an unexpected turn. The truth? An LPA is simple to set up and gives you peace of mind at any age.

Common Myths, Debunked

1. “I’m too young.”
   
   • Accidents and illnesses don’t discriminate by age.
2. “It’s complicated.”
   
   • Setting up an LPA is straightforward with professional help.
3. “I’ll do it later.”
   
   • Waiting until it’s too late can leave your family powerless.

“By failing to prepare, you are preparing to fail.”

Benjamin Franklin

Take Action Today

Don’t let delays or misconceptions put your family at risk. Setting up an LPA is faster and easier than you think, and it provides lasting peace of mind. Our team of experts can guide you through every step, tailoring the process to your needs.

Protect your legacy and give your family the certainty they deserve. Act now to secure your future with confidence.