“We often have clients who ask us what they should do to plan for the future if they get to a point where they are unable to make decisions for themselves and we recommend putting in place a Power or Attorney or LPA.” says Alison Westwood, Solicitor and Director at Thornes. “An LPA is a legal document that allows someone you appoint (your attorney) to make financial and/or health and care decisions for you, or act on your behalf, if you’re no longer able to” Alison explains.
“You should choose someone you trust to be your attorney, someone who you know will always have your best interests at heart and whilst this may be a close family member it does not have to be, everyone’s circumstances are different. If you’re married or in a civil partnership, you may have thought that your spouse would automatically be able to deal with every aspect of your finances and make decisions about your healthcare, if you no longer can. This is not the case, without an LPA, they won’t be able to unless they are your legally appointed attorney” say’s Alison.
Thornes Solicitors has a small, friendly, professional Wills and Probate Team, accredited by Solicitors for the Elderly who can help you. For more information call Alison Westwood or Rita Malhi to find out more on 01902 313311.
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