Lasting Powers of Attorney

A Power of Attorney is a legal document where a person gives another person or persons (the Attorneys) power to sign and conduct legal formalities and make other decisions on their behalf. From 1 October 2007 Lasting Powers of Attorney replaced Enduring Powers of Attorney. Both were designed so they continue being effective after the Donor loses mental capacity.

There are two types of Lasting Powers of Attorney:-

• Lasting Power of Attorney Property & Financial Affairs which allows your Attorney to have authority to deal with property and finances as you direct
• Lasting Power of Attorney Health and Welfare which allows your Attorney to make welfare and healthcare decisions on your behalf when you no longer have the mental capacity to do so yourself. If you wish, this could include giving or refusing consent to life sustaining treatment in certain circumstances.