Lasting Power of Attorney FAQs

Here we try to answer the most frequently asked questions (FAQs) about Lasting Power of Attorney. If you have a question that is not dealt with here then please feel free to contact a member of our Wills, Probate and Tax Planning Team, George Persson, Jacqui Hellings, Emily Knowles or David Martin.

What is a Lasting Power of Attorney?

A formal document which appoints someone else to deal with your financial or personal affairs (including in relation to medical treatment), and is used most commonly to assist in the event you should become mentally incapable.

When does the Lasting Power of Attorney become effective?

The Attorney(s) can only start using the Power once it has been registered with the Court of Protection and its use is then monitored by the Office of the Public Guardian.

I have been appointed as someone's Attorney under a Lasting Power of Attorney document, what happens when they die?

Your appointment ceases when the person dies, and their affairs are then to be managed by the Executors or Administrators of their Estate.