Many people come to the UK and spend their time dealing with schools, buying a home, or planning taxes.
But very few think about one important question:
If one day you suddenly lose the ability to make decisions for yourself…
can your family legally step in for you?
Unfortunately, in the UK, the answer is often no.
Even your closest family members — your spouse or your adult children — do not automatically have the legal right to:
- manage your bank accounts
- pay your mortgage
- handle your investments
- or agree to (or refuse) medical treatment on your behalf
In these situations, your family must apply to the court for a Deputyship Order.
This process is slow and complicated.
It involves financial reports, application fees, solicitor fees, and ongoing annual supervision from the court.
Many families find themselves overwhelmed — emotionally and financially.
LPA: Turning Trust Into a Legal Protection, Not a Wish
To avoid all of this, UK law provides a clear and powerful solution:
the Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA).
In simple terms, an LPA allows you to choose someone you trust before anything happens, so that if you ever lose mental capacity, they can legally make decisions for you.
There are two types of LPA:
1. Property and Financial Affairs LPA
For decisions about money, property, investments, and bills.
2. Health and Welfare LPA
For decisions about medical treatment, care arrangements, and life-sustaining treatment.
An LPA only becomes legally valid once it has been properly signed, witnessed, and registered.
Once registered, it is recognised by banks, hospitals, government bodies, and care providers.
Why Young People Need an LPA Too
Many people assume LPA is only for the elderly.
It is not.
A stroke, an accident, a severe illness, or even temporary unconsciousness can suddenly leave anyone unable to manage their own affairs.
If you own property, run a business, have a family, or simply want to spare your loved ones unnecessary stress, an LPA is a sensible and essential protection.
Preparing Early Is the Real Way to Protect Your Family
Setting up an LPA is not difficult, but the signing and witnessing process must follow strict legal rules to make sure:
- you understand what you are signing
- you are acting voluntarily
- and the document is properly validated
By preparing an LPA now, you are giving your family a form of security and peace of mind.
In the most challenging moments, the person you trust can act immediately — without waiting months for a court decision.
Want to Set Up an LPA for Yourself or a Family Member?
If you want advice on:
- how to prepare an LPA
- how to choose the right attorney
- or how to register the document
our professional legal team can guide you through the entire process, from consultation to drafting to registration.
