Powers of Attorney Solicitors in West Midlands
Planning for the future is essential, and a Power of Attorney is a vital tool for ensuring your affairs are managed according to your wishes, even if you become unable to make decisions for yourself. Wall James Chappell’s experienced solicitors in West Midlands provide clear, practical advice on all aspects of Powers of Attorney. We can help you create a Power of Attorney that meets your specific needs and protects your interests. Contact us today for a confidential discussion.
What is a Power of Attorney?
A Power of Attorney is a legal document that allows you to appoint someone you trust (your “attorney”) to make decisions on your behalf. There are different types of Powers of Attorney, including:
- Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA): This allows your attorney to make decisions about your health and welfare, and/or your property and financial affairs, if you lose the capacity to do so yourself.
- Ordinary Power of Attorney: This allows your attorney to make decisions about your property and financial affairs for a specific period, such as when you are travelling abroad.
A Power of Attorney ensures that your chosen representative can manage your affairs according to your wishes, providing peace of mind for you and your family.
Why Choose Wall James Chappell for Your Power of Attorney?
Our dedicated team of solicitors has extensive experience in preparing Powers of Attorney. We understand the importance of these documents and will work closely with you to ensure that your Power of Attorney accurately reflects your wishes and is legally sound.
We pride ourselves on our client-focused approach. We will listen carefully to your needs and concerns, explain your options clearly, and guide you through every step of the process. Our aim is to provide you with a Power of Attorney that is tailored to your specific circumstances and protects your interests.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the difference between a Lasting Power of Attorney for health and welfare and one for property and financial affairs?
A health and welfare LPA allows your attorney to make decisions about your medical treatment, care, and living arrangements. A property and financial affairs LPA allows your attorney to manage your bank accounts, pay your bills, and deal with your property. You can have one or both types of LPA.
When does a Lasting Power of Attorney come into effect?
A Lasting Power of Attorney for property and financial affairs can be used while you still have capacity, with your permission. A Lasting Power of Attorney for health and welfare can only be used once you have lost capacity. Both types of LPA must be registered with the Office of the Public Guardian before they can be used.
Who can be an attorney?
An attorney must be over 18 and have the mental capacity to make decisions. You can appoint more than one attorney, and you can specify whether they should act jointly or jointly and severally.
Can a Power of Attorney be revoked?
Yes, a Power of Attorney can be revoked, provided you still have the mental capacity to do so.
What happens if I lose capacity and I don't have a Power of Attorney?
If you lose capacity and you don’t have a Power of Attorney, someone will need to apply to the Court of Protection to become your deputy. This is a more complex and time-consuming process than creating a Power of Attorney.