Changes to Power of Attorney laws

20th September 2007

From the 1st October, the way in which you give a Power of Attorney (legal authority over your financial affairs) to somebody will change with the introduction of Lasting Powers of Attorney (LPA’s). These will replace the current Enduring Powers of Attorney (EPA’s).

Whilst EPA’s which have already been made (or ones made prior to the 1st October) will remain valid, only new, more detailed LPA’s can be created after this date.

There wil be two types of Lasting Power of Attorney one dealing with property and affairs and one dealing with personal welfare.

Under the latter you would be able to appoint an attorney to make decisions regarding your personal welfare if you are unable to do so.

LPA’s are more detailed and complex documents and are therefore more costly to produce than the EPAs they are replacing. It is viewed that the advantages and protective safeguards of LPA’s will justify their creation.

Rather like making a Will, future planning of this nature is not something that people want to spend much time focusing on. An investment now in consultation with your solicitor will give you the peace of mind that your future is planned for your family and loved ones.

Read Dunn Connell has been providing legal advice both to private clients and to the business community in Bradford and West Yorkshire for nearly one hundred years.   The firm acts for both local and national companies as well as for individuals.

James Thomas a partner in the practice, is an expert in the area of Powers of Attorney, Wills & Probate and a member of the Society of Trust and Estate Practitioners (STEP).

If you would like to speak to someone about any of the issues raised in this article please call James Thomas or Sarah Littlewood, Solicitor in the Wills and Probate department on 01274 723 858 or email: s.littlewood@readdunnconnell.co.uk