Creating a Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA) is crucial for anyone seeking to ensure their affairs are managed by a trusted individual if they become unable to do so themselves, due to a loss of capacity. It is vital to create the LPA while the donor (the person appointing attorneys) still has the capacity to make informed decisions.
If capacity is already lost, then one of our lawyers specialising in LPAs can guide you through making an application to the Court of Protection for a Deputyship Order instead.
There are two types of LPA available: one for “health and welfare” and another for “property and financial affairs”. A lasting power of attorney lawyer can help in drafting either or both types, depending on the individual’s needs. LPAs are often prepared alongside drafting or updating a Will for comprehensive future planning.
How does the process work with a Lasting Power of Attorney?
The process begins with deciding on the type of LPA needed. Clients are then invited to meet with their lasting power of attorney lawyer to provide the relevant information to complete the necessary forms and to discuss any questions they may have. Once the forms have been prepared, there is a strict signing process. Their lawyer will guide them through this and will check the documentation to ensure the LPAs are validly signed and witnessed. These forms are subsequently sent to the Office of the Public Guardian for registration, a step our lawyers always undertake immediately to ensure the LPAs are ready to be used as soon as they are needed.
How long does it take?
The registration process involves a statutory waiting period of four weeks, allowing any concerned parties the opportunity to oppose the application. Overall, the Office of the Public Guardian typically takes about 10-12 weeks to register the LPAs once submitted.
What are the costs?
Our lasting power of attorney lawyer services can be provided for a fixed fee. The Office of the Public Guardian charges a registration fee of £92.00 per LPA. For a detailed quotation, please contact us at privateclient@grantsaw.co.uk.
What should I consider before calling?
It’s important for donors to carefully consider who they appoint as their attorneys, as these individuals will be making significant decisions on their behalf. A lasting power of attorney lawyer can provide guidance on choosing the right person to ensure your wishes are respected if you become unable to make decisions yourself.
What if my application is opposed/disputed?
Our team includes specialist lawyers experienced in navigating disputes and court applications related to LPAs. We have extensive experience dealing with both the Court of Protection and the Office of the Public Guardian.
Why are Grant Saw’s lasting power of attorney lawyers the best for the job?
Grant Saw has the largest Private Client department in the local area, with six dedicated lawyers specialising in lasting power of attorney matters. Our department is known for excellent client service, a friendly approach, and comes highly recommended by our existing clients.
We hold the Law Society’s WIQS accreditation for Wills and Probate meaning all the lawyers in the Private Client department are experts in this area. Our department also comprises members of the Association of Lifetime Lawyers (ALL) , and members of the Society of Trusts and Estate Practitioners (STEP), highlighting our commitment to providing the best possible advice and high-quality care and support to clients. Our lasting power of attorney lawyers ensure prompt and cost-effective registration of LPAs, with full disabled access available at our Greenwich and Blackheath offices.
Our offices in Greenwich and Blackheath offer full disabled access. For more information, please email privateclient@grantsaw.co.uk or contact the team on 020 8858 6971.
