Who should you appoint as an LPA attorney?

Choosing the right person to act as your attorney under a UK lasting power of attorney is an important decision. Your attorney can be anyone you trust to make decisions on your behalf if you lose mental capacity, such as a family member, a close friend, or a professional.

The person you appoint will have the legal authority to make decisions on your behalf if you lose mental capacity, so they should meet the following criteria:

Trustworthy and reliable

Your attorney should be someone who acts in your best interests, respects your wishes, and can make decisions impartially. They need to be someone you can trust implicitly and be reliable in their thinking and actions. They should also be trusted to maintain confidentiality regarding your health and finances.

Competent

It is vital that when you sign your UK power of attorney, perhaps created with the help of a company such as powerofattorneyonline.co.uk/, the person you appoint has the mental capacity to make decisions and is capable of managing the responsibilities involved. Consider their ability to handle financial matters and make informed decisions about your health and welfare.

Professional assistance

If you don’t have a suitable person to appoint, or if your affairs are complex, you might consider appointing a professional attorney. Solicitors regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority and accredited by Solicitors for the Elderly have the expertise to manage your affairs.

Selecting the right attorney for your LPA is a significant decision, as it allows someone to speak for you when you cannot.