If you are considering making Lasting Powers of Attorney to enable a loved one to help you, we understand that this may feel overwhelming. There are many considerations, including choosing someone you trust to carry out your wishes and conduct your affairs as you would want. Choosing the right attorney, and making your wishes clear to them, is an essential part of the process and can help you move forward in your life with confidence. In this blog, I will look at how to approach the discussion and how to ensure your wishes are clearly communicated when making Lasting Powers of Attorney.
Addressing your concerns about making Lasting Powers of Attorney
Creating Lasting Powers of Attorney is essential for planning for the future. There are two types of Lasting Power of Attorney: one for your property and financial affairs and another for your health and welfare. Unfortunately, life is unpredictable, and in the future, you may need someone to make decisions for you and carry out actions on your behalf should you lose the capacity to do so for yourself. Lasting Powers of Attorney are designed to provide peace of mind, but we understand that you may still be apprehensive. What if your attorney doesn’t know what to do? What if they do not follow your instructions? Concerns about Lasting Powers of Attorney are very normal, and there are steps you can take to make the process straightforward for your attorney, providing them with clarity about their role.
Choosing the right person to be your attorney
Most people have an idea about who they wish to be their attorney, but it is still important to consider your choice carefully. You should trust the person you choose to follow your wishes and have the common sense to manage your financial affairs and care confidently. You can also appoint more than one attorney. For example, you may have someone in mind who would be better at arranging everyday care and another who is better with financial decisions.
Discussing your wishes
We would recommend raising the issue with your family and loved ones before you make your Lasting Powers of Attorney. They can then work with you to choose the best person for the role. They may raise concerns or issues that you had not considered. Discussing the Lasting Powers of Attorney with your loved ones is also an opportunity to clarify your wishes. You should discuss both financial matters and care matters. Care matters may be where you would like to live, what you like to eat or the clothes you like to wear.
To speak to a member of our Trusts & Estates team about creating your own Lasting Power of Attorney, please call 01483 887766 or start a live chat today.
*This is not legal advice; it is intended to provide information of general interest about current legal issues.
