Why Every Adult Should Consider a Lasting Power of Attorney

A Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA) is one of the most important legal documents you can put in place, yet it is often overlooked. Many people assume LPAs are only relevant for older people or those with serious health conditions. In reality, anyone over the age of 18 can benefit from having one.

Why having an LPA matters

A Lasting Power of Attorney allows you to appoint trusted individuals (known as attorneys) to make decisions on your behalf if you become unable to do so yourself.

There are two types of LPA:

• Property and Financial Affairs LPA – covering bank accounts, bills, investments, and property.

• Health and Welfare LPA – covering medical treatment, care arrangements, and day-to-day welfare.

By creating an LPA, you remain in control of who will act for you and how decisions are made.

The common misconception

A number of high-profile cases have highlighted the practical difficulties that can arise when a loved one becomes unable to manage their own affairs. Broadcaster Kate Garraway has spoken publicly about the legal and administrative challenges she faced following her husband Derek Draper’s serious illness.

While every family’s circumstances are different, her experience helped raise awareness of the importance of planning ahead and ensuring that the appropriate legal arrangements are in place.

It is important to remember that being a spouse, civil partner, or next of kin does not automatically give someone the legal authority to manage another person’s finances or make decisions on their behalf.

Final thoughts

A Lasting Power of Attorney is not just a legal formality; it is a practical safeguard for the future. While no one likes to think about losing the ability to make decisions, failing to plan ahead can create significant difficulties for both you and your family.

Without a valid LPA, your loved ones may be unable to manage your finances or make important decisions when you need them most.

The question is not whether you are too young to need an LPA. The better question is: if something happened tomorrow, who would be able to make decisions for you?

If you do not already have a Lasting Power of Attorney in place, it is worth taking some time to consider whether one could benefit you and your family. Putting an LPA in place now can provide valuable peace of mind, helping to ensure that the people you trust can support you and make decisions on your behalf if the need ever arises.

If you would like to discuss your options or learn more about how an LPA could help protect your future, our Private Client team would be happy to help. Please call 01295 204000 or email privateclientwebenquiries@se-solicitors.co.uk.

The question is not whether you are too young to need an LPA. The better question is: if something happened tomorrow, who would be able to make decisions for you?