Experts in Estate administration, Will Writing and Lasting Power of Attorney

Lasting Power Of Attorney

Entrust A Representative To Legally Make Decisions On Your Behalf

Planning ahead isn’t just about organising your finances or writing a will. It’s about protecting your wellbeing and ensuring the people you trust can make important decisions on your behalf if you’re ever unable to do so. At Blackfriars Law, our solicitors help clients across Birmingham create legally binding Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA) documents with clarity, care and confidence.

Whether you’re concerned about your future health, worried about managing your affairs in later life, or simply want peace of mind that someone you trust can step in if needed, our team can help you take this important legal step with ease.

Understanding Lasting Power Of Attorney

A Lasting Power of Attorney is a legal document that allows you (the donor) to appoint one or more trusted individuals (attorneys) to make decisions on your behalf if you lose the capacity to do so yourself. There are two types of LPA:

A Property and Financial Affairs LPA gives your attorney the authority to manage your money, deal with property transactions, pay bills, and liaise with financial institutions.
A Health and Welfare LPA enables them to make decisions about your day-to-day care, medical treatment, and living arrangements. This type can only be used if you’re no longer able to make decisions yourself.

By putting these protections in place now, you avoid leaving your family with difficult decisions and potentially costly legal barriers later on.

Why Make An LPA Now?

Many people assume that LPAs are only relevant for the elderly. In reality, any adult can benefit from the reassurance that someone they trust will be able to act for them in case of accident or illness. Without an LPA, your loved ones may need to apply to the Court of Protection to make decisions on your behalf. This is a process that can be lengthy, expensive and stressful at an already difficult time.

By creating an LPA, you take back control of your future. You decide who manages your affairs and under what circumstances. You can also give clear guidance about your values, preferences, and the kinds of decisions you’d want your attorney to make. An LPA does not affect your will and has no power after you die. Probate may still be required, depending on your estate – but an LPA has no impact on this.

Supportive, Straightforward Advice

Setting up an LPA can feel daunting, but we’re here to make it simple. At Blackfriars Law, our solicitors will take the time to explain your options, answer your questions, and guide you through every step of the process. We offer transparent fees and there are no hidden costs.

We’ll help you choose suitable attorneys, consider how decisions should be made (jointly or independently), and draft a document that reflects your specific wishes.

Once everything is in place, we handle the registration with the Office of the Public Guardian on your behalf. As well as that, we make sure all paperwork is completed accurately to avoid delays in processing.

We take a sensitive and compassionate approach. If you’re supporting a loved one in setting up an LPA – particularly if they’re living with a progressive condition such as dementia – we offer respectful and clear communication throughout.

What Does An LPA Cover?

An LPA can be tailored to your needs and the powers you wish to grant. Depending on which type you create, your attorney may be able to:

Manage your bank accounts and investments
Pay rent, mortgage or utility bills
Handle tax and pensions
Make decisions about medical treatment and care
Choose where you live
Speak with healthcare professionals on your behalf

We’ll ensure that your wishes are captured accurately and that any preferences or restrictions you want to include are legally enforceable.

FAQs

Do I lose control once I create an LPA?

No. Your attorney can only act with your permission while you still have capacity. For health and welfare LPAs, they can only act once you’ve lost capacity.

How long does registration take?

The Office of the Public Guardian usually takes around 8 to 10 weeks to process and register an LPA. We’ll keep you updated and help avoid common errors that can cause delays.

Can I cancel an LPA?

Yes. If you still have mental capacity, you can revoke your LPA at any time. We can assist with this process.

Is it expensive to set one up?

We offer competitive fixed fees and can advise on whether you’re eligible for a fee reduction or exemption for the registration cost.

Get In Touch Today

Talk To Us About Making An LPA

Creating a Lasting Power of Attorney doesn’t have to be complicated. With the right legal support, it can be one of the most empowering steps you take to protect your future.

Get in touch with Blackfriars Law today for clear, compassionate advice and practical legal support. We’re here to help you and your loved ones plan ahead with confidence.