Lasting Power of Attorney – Coronavirus FAQ’s

How would a Lasting Power of Attorney be useful during the Coronavirus disruption?

There are two types of Lasting Power of Attorney and both are particularly relevant now.

If you become unwell and are unable to look after your financial affairs, a Lasting Power of Attorney for Property and Finance enables you to appoint Attorneys to look after your financial affairs for you, whilst you are unable to.

A Lasting Power of Attorney for Health and Welfare enables you to appoint Attorneys to make decisions about your medical treatment and care. Next of kin have no legal status or authority whereas an Attorney does and has a legal right to be consulted. You can also set out your wishes regarding resuscitation etc.

 Download our guide to Lasting Powers of Attorney here.

 Our recommendation is that there has never been a more important time to have a Lasting Power of Attorney in place. It will avoid worry for you if you become ill as your Attorneys will be able to take care of everything. It will avoid worry and stress for your family and friends who won’t be able to do anything to help you unless they apply for a Deputyship Order (required if you do not have an LPA). 

What happens if I become unwell and can’t deal with my affairs?

If you do not have a Lasting or Enduring Power of Attorney in place nobody is legally authorised to deal with your affairs on your behalf. This means the your affairs will be neglected until you are able to look after them again yourself.

 It is possible for a relative to apply for a Deputyship Order however the Court has to approve their appointment by way of a Court Order which could take months, particularly as the Office of the Public Guardian is working with reduced numbers of staff at the moment.

See information about Deputyship Orders here.

Now, more than ever, it’s important to get the best legal advice. Whatever your query – LPAs, Wills, Court of Protection – please get in touch.

01643 703234 email enquiries@thornesegar.co.uk