Enduring Powers of Attorney

Planning Ahead

An Enduring Power of Attorney allows someone you trust the power to make important decisions on your behalf if you are unable to do so yourself due to an illness, injury or age. These are of two types: Property and Personal Care and Welfare.

Property - This allows your chosen attorney(s) to look after your personal property and financial matters, such as assets, bills, bank accounts, etc. You can elect for this to take effect immediately or only when you lose capacity.

Personal Care and Welfare - this allows your chosen attorney to make certain decisions on how you are cared for namely your health and well-being. This will only come into effect when you become mentally incapable.

Enduring Powers of Attorney are valid until your lifetime. It ceases upon the date of your death in which case your Will would take effect.

You can revoke your Enduring Powers of Attorney at any time whilst you have capacity. However, it is recommended that new ones are prepared to replace your existing ones.

If you become incapacitated without an enduring power of attorney, your family will have to apply to the Court to be appointed welfare guardians under the Protection of Personal and Property Rights Act 1988 - a process that can be costly, complex, and time consuming.

Please get in touch if you need assistance in preparing your Enduring Powers of Attorney.