Legal Matters: Knowing How to Help A Loved One

Caring for an elderly loved one can mean helping out with legal documents and legal matters. One of the most important legal processes is arranging Lasting Powers of Attorney (LPA) and  we aim to provide you with the knowledge and confidence to be the best advocate for your loved ones when managing their affairs.

Disclaimer: Our guides are not a substitute for expert advice – always seek professional help. Remember, professionals will not share information about individuals unless they have been permitted to do so.

How This Information Can Help You

  1. Helping out with Legal Matters

    If someone is struggling to manage their affairs, then you might need to step in and offer support. It can also help to give some thought to this before it’s too late. We’re here to help guide you in the right direction.

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  2. Understanding Lasting Powers of Attorney

    Lasting Powers of Attorney (LPA or POA) can pave the way for named individuals to legally manage your affairs if you cannot.

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  3. Frequently Asked Questions

    Understand the common questions asked about legal matters when caring for an elderly loved one.

    Read our FAQs
  4. Why Lasting Powers of Attorney are so important

    LPAs can ensure your loved one’s wishes are respected, even if they’re no longer able to communicate them themselves.

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Understanding Lasting Powers of Attorney

Lasting Powers of Attorney (LPA or POA) act like a safety net; their purpose is to ensure our loved ones still have their voices heard and their wishes respected, even if they can’t speak or act for themselves one day. LPA can provide you and your loved ones peace of mind, knowing that important decisions are in safe hands. They can also help you manage their financial affairs during periods of illness or stays in hospital.

Frequently Asked Questions about Legal Matters

Find answers to the most pressing questions regarding legal matters while caring for a loved one.

A Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA) is a legal document that allows a person to appoint someone to make decisions on their behalf. There are two types of LPA, one for health and welfare and another for property and finances. 

The main difference is when they were created. An Enduring Power of Attorney (EPA) was used before the Mental Capacity Act 2005, covering property and finances. It can still be used if it was made before October 1, 2007. A Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA) can cover health, welfare, property, and finances.

Lasting power of attorney means creating a legal arrangement that grants a person the authority to handle your affairs. This could include making decisions about your finances, health, and personal welfare. The arrangement is “lasting” because it remains valid even if you lose the mental capacity to make decisions yourself.

To get a lasting power of attorney, you need to:

  • Choose your attorney(s): Decide who you trust to make decisions on your behalf.
  • Complete the LPA form: You can complete it with help from a solicitor or download it from the government’s website specific to your country within the UK.
  • Sign the form: This needs to be done in the presence of a witness. 
  • Register the LPA: Submit the completed form to the Office of the Public Guardian (OPG) for registration.