At Thornes we will always recommend to our clients that they consider having LPA’s for both Finance and Health & Wellbeing.  Having an LPA in place means that you will have peace of mind that someone, or a number of people you know and who you trust (called attorneys) can make decisions on your behalf when you are no longer able to and make sure your wishes are met.

Any new LPA must be discussed with a qualified professional such as a solicitor, who must verify that you know what you are agreeing to and that you have not been coerced into signing. 

An LPA does not instantly give power to your ‘attorney’ though – it is only triggered when the appropriate circumstances arise i.e. when you are no longer able to make decisions for yourself.  If you become incapacitated without an LPA, decision-making responsibilities could be awarded to anyone by the Court of Protection – including, for example, a relative who you don’t believe has your best interests at heart. 

These are strange times and you may not feel confident to come out to visit us with your instruction!  No need to worry, we can talk to you over the phone and agree safe ways of working together that work for you.  To find out more about our legal services and to speak to a member of our Wills and Probate Team please call us on 01902 313311.