What is a Lasting Power of Attorney?

A Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA) is a means by which you can give someone authority over your property and financial and/or health and welfare affairs in the event of your incapacity. It is a legal document appointing a person or persons of your choice to be your attorney(s).

From October 2007, LPAs replaced Enduring Powers of Attorney (EPA) in England and Wales.

There are two different types of LPA:

• a property and financial affairs LPA, similar to an EPA; and
• a personal health and welfare LPA, which can include provisions for giving or refusing consent to medical treatment in circumstances where the donor has lost the capacity to make such decisions themselves.

You can set up one or both types. If you have an EPA you can also set up a separate LPA to cover your personal health and welfare.

What happens if I already have an EPA?

If you have an existing EPA it can continue to operate (whether registered or not).

Can I revoke an LPA?

You can revoke your LPA at any time providing you still have mental capacity.

Where can I find out more?

More detailed information can be obtained from the downloads on the right hand side of this page. You can also contact:

The Office of the Public Guardian
Archway Tower
2 Junction Road
London
N19 5SZ
Tel: 0845 330 2900
Web: http://www.publicguardian.gov.uk/