This page covers planning ahead, while you have capacity to do so. If a loved one has already lost mental capacity and no power of attorney is in place, you'll need a different process — see Court of Protection solicitors. If you need to register, act under, or challenge an existing LPA, see lasting power of attorney solicitors.
Power of Attorney Solicitors
In short
A power of attorney is a legal document in which you name someone you trust to make decisions on your behalf, in case there's ever a time you're unable to. Setting one up while you have full mental capacity is one of the most valuable pieces of future planning you can do, alongside making a will. Call 08082747557 for a free initial for a free initial assessment.
Why you should consider a lasting power of attorney
One in three people over 65 will develop a form of dementia. Without a power of attorney in place beforehand, your family cannot simply step in to manage your finances or make care decisions if you lose capacity — they would have to apply to the Court of Protection for "deputyship", a process that is slower, more expensive, and more restrictive than acting under an LPA you set up yourself.
Different types of power of attorney
- Ordinary power of attorney — temporary, and only valid while you still have mental capacity (for example, if you're abroad or in hospital and need someone to manage short-term affairs).
- Lasting power of attorney (LPA) — the modern, comprehensive option, available in two types:
- Property and financial affairs LPA — covers bank accounts, bills, property and investments.
- Health and welfare LPA — covers medical treatment and day-to-day care decisions, and only takes effect if you lose capacity.
- Enduring power of attorney (EPA) — the older version, replaced by LPAs in 2007, but still valid if it was made before then and correctly registered.
When is an LPA legally valid?
An LPA must be made while you have mental capacity (as defined by the Mental Capacity Act 2005) and correctly registered with the Office of the Public Guardian before it can be used.
Are there safeguards?
Yes. An LPA requires a certificate provider to confirm you understand what you're signing and aren't under pressure, and named people can be notified when it's registered, giving them the chance to raise concerns.
Ready to set up a lasting power of attorney? Call 08082747557 for a free initial assessment — there's no obligation.
How do I set up a lasting power of attorney?
A solicitor can:
- Explain your options clearly and help you decide which type(s) you need
- Tailor the document to your specific circumstances and wishes
- Act as your certificate provider
- Check everything is completed correctly
- Handle registration with the Office of the Public Guardian
How much does a power of attorney cost?
Registration currently costs £82 per LPA with the Office of the Public Guardian (£164 if you register both types). Our fees for preparing and registering your LPA are confirmed upfront under our Clear Price Guarantee — no hidden costs.
Related Services
- Register or act under an LPA where capacity has already been lost Lasting power of attorney solicitors
- Apply to the Court of Protection for a deputy Court of Protection solicitors
- Write or update a will Making a will
- Deal with an estate after a death (probate) Estate administration
- Protect assets for children, grandchildren or a vulnerable relative Trusts
- Back to Wills & Probate Wills & Probate