Question 1

What is a Lasting Power of Attorney?

Accepted Answer

A Lasting Power of Attorney is the power of attorney used in United Kingdom - England and Wales. It lets you appoint people you trust to make decisions on your behalf. This page is general information, not legal advice; a qualified professional can advise on your own situation.

Question 2

When can a Lasting Power of Attorney be used?

Accepted Answer

Only once it is registered. A health and welfare document can generally only be used once you are unable to make the relevant decisions yourself. A property and financial affairs document can generally be used once registered, with your permission, even while you can still make decisions.

Question 3

What does it cost?

Accepted Answer

You pay our fixed document fee for each Lasting Power of Attorney, shown on the pricing page.

Question 4

Is this the official Office of the Public Guardian form?

Accepted Answer

No. What you prepare with us is a preparation aid, not the prescribed form. A Lasting Power of Attorney has to be made on the official form published by the Office of the Public Guardian. Our guided draft gathers your choices in one place so the official form is easier to complete.

Question 5

Does this cover Scotland or Northern Ireland?

Accepted Answer

No. Scotland has its own documents, the Continuing and Welfare Powers of Attorney, covered on our United Kingdom - Scotland page. Northern Ireland uses different rules again; our powers of attorney overview explains how we help in jurisdictions where we do not yet hold a template.

Question 6

Can I change or cancel it later?

Accepted Answer

Generally, yes, provided you still have the capacity to do so. The exact process for changing or revoking a registered Lasting Power of Attorney is set by the Office of the Public Guardian.

Lasting Power of Attorney in England and Wales

Frequently Asked Questions about Lasting Powers of Attorney