Member Article

Archers Law welcomes simpler, cheaper LPAs

TEES Valley law firm Archers Law has welcomed recent changes in the process of making Lasting Powers of Attorney (LPA).

An LPA is an invaluable legal document allowing a person to choose and appoint someone to make decisions on their behalf in case of future mental incapacity.

The Court of Protection administrative department has recently made the registration process more efficient and user friendly, coupled with a reduction in the fee for registering a single LPA from £130 to £110.

These moves have been applauded by solicitors at Stockton-based Archers Law, which has particular expertise working with local individuals, couples and families on Court of Protection matters.

Rosemary Young, a consultant solicitor within Archers’ Wills, Probates and Trusts team, said: “Essentially, a property and financial affairs LPA will ensure someone has authority to protect and manage your assets in emergencies or gradual declining health.

“It is an effective and helpful insurance, not only in later life, but at any time if an accident or sudden illness occurs that may mean you lose the capacity to manage your own affairs.

“An LPA allows you to choose someone you know and trust well to look after your money and property without having to go through the long and onerous process of releasing assets through the Court of Protection.”

A health and welfare LPA allows someone who knows your wishes to make decisions around how and where you are cared for or for your medical care, if you are no longer able to make these important decisions for yourself.

Rosemary added: “It’s important to stress that LPAs are not just for the elderly, they are for everyone; particularly single people with assets in their own name. We all know about the importance of making wills, but they only determine where your assets go after your death, not how they are managed for your benefit during your lifetime.”

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