A Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA) is a document that allows you to appoint someone you trust to make decisions on your behalf if you become unable to do so yourself. It is a legal document that should be set up while you are still of sound mind and body, as it will not be valid if you become mentally incapacitated.
An LPA is a powerful document and should not be taken lightly. It is important to ensure that you have chosen someone who you trust to make decisions in your best interests and to act in accordance with your wishes. It is also important to understand the scope of the LPA and what decisions your appointed attorney can make on your behalf.
The two types of LPAs are for health and welfare decisions and for property and financial affairs. The health and welfare LPA covers decisions about medical treatment, care and where you live. The property and financial affairs LPA covers decisions about your money and property, such as bills, investments and bank accounts.
Once you have appointed an attorney, the LPA will remain in effect until you revoke it or until your death. It is important to note that the LPA must be registered with the Office of the Public Guardian before it can be used.
It is a good idea to review your LPA regularly, especially if there have been any changes in your life or in the life of your attorney. You may also want to review your LPA if you move to a different country or if the law changes.
Overall, an LPA is a valuable document that can provide peace of mind for you and your family. It is important to ensure that you have chosen someone you trust to make decisions on your behalf and to act in accordance with your wishes. An LPA will remain in effect until you revoke it or until your death, so it is important to review it regularly. The LPA must also be registered with the Office of the Public Guardian before it can be used, so it is important to ensure that this is done. With an LPA in place, you can be sure that your wishes will be respected if you become unable to make decisions for yourself.
