Power of Attorney

At Talbots Law, we make setting up a Power of Attorney straightforward, giving you peace of mind that your affairs will always be in safe hands.

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Putting a Lasting Power of Attorney in place means the people you trust can step in and support you if you are ever unable to make decisions yourself.

Whether you are planning ahead for the future, supporting an ageing parent, or protecting your family from uncertainty, our Power of Attorney solicitors can guide you through the process with clear advice and compassionate support.

No matter how complex the situation, we’ll do everything we can to find a resolution that meets your specific needs. Speak to a member of our team today to arrange a meeting by calling us on 0800 118 1500 or filling out our online form below.

What is a Lasting Power of Attorney?

A Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA) is a legal document that allows you to appoint someone you trust to make decisions on your behalf if you are ever unable to do so yourself.

Many people assume LPAs are only needed later in life, but illness, accidents or unexpected changes in circumstances can happen at any age.

Having an LPA in place means the people closest to you can step in quickly and legally if support is ever needed, without lengthy court applications or unnecessary delays.

Why Having an LPA Matters

Without a valid Lasting Power of Attorney, your loved ones may not automatically have the legal authority to make decisions for you.

In some situations, families may need to apply to the Court of Protection to gain permission to act on someone’s behalf, which can be expensive, stressful and time-consuming.

Putting an LPA in place early can help avoid uncertainty and give everyone clarity about your wishes.

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When Might You Need a Power of Attorney?

Planning Ahead for the Future

Many people put LPAs in place simply for peace of mind, knowing their wishes and finances would be protected if circumstances changed unexpectedly.

Supporting Elderly Parents

Families often arrange Powers of Attorney to help ageing parents manage finances, healthcare decisions or care arrangements more easily.

Following a Diagnosis or Illness

Conditions such as dementia, Parkinson’s disease or serious illness can make it important to put arrangements in place sooner rather than later.

Business Owners and Property Owners

If you own a business or property, an LPA can help ensure important decisions can still be managed if you become unable to act yourself.

Couples and Young Families

Many younger couples now put LPAs in place alongside making a Will, particularly after buying a home or having children.

Why Choose Talbots’ Power of Attorney Lawyers?

At Talbots Law, we understand that planning for the future is deeply personal. Our experienced Trusts & Estates team combines legal expertise with a compassionate and approachable service, helping individuals and families make confident decisions about the future.

We explain everything in plain English, take the time to understand your circumstances, and ensure the process feels as straightforward and supportive as possible.

With tens of offices across the Midlands, we support clients with clear communication, practical advice and a focus on achieving the right outcome efficiently. Trusted by thousands of people each year, our TrustPilot reviews demonstrate our pride in exceptional service.

What are the two types of Lasting Power of Attorney? Which one do I need?

There are two types of Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA), and many people choose to put both in place as part of their future planning.

A Property and Financial Affairs LPA allows someone you trust to help manage matters such as bank accounts, bills, property and finances. A Health and Welfare LPA allows someone to make decisions about medical treatment, care and day-to-day wellbeing if you lose mental capacity.

Our solicitors can explain the differences clearly and help you decide which option is right for your circumstances.

What happens if there is no Power of Attorney in place?

If there is no valid Lasting Power of Attorney in place and someone loses mental capacity, family members do not automatically have the legal authority to make decisions on their behalf.

In many cases, loved ones may need to apply to the Court of Protection to become a deputy, which can be a lengthy, stressful and expensive process. Putting an LPA in place early can help avoid uncertainty and ensure decisions can be made more smoothly if support is ever needed.

What decisions can an attorney make under a Lasting Power of Attorney?

The decisions an attorney can make will depend on the type of Lasting Power of Attorney that has been put in place.

An attorney appointed under a Property and Financial Affairs LPA may help manage finances, property and household bills. An attorney acting under a Health and Welfare LPA may make decisions about medical care, living arrangements and day-to-day wellbeing if the person loses mental capacity.

Attorneys must always act in the best interests of the person they are representing and follow any instructions included within the LPA.

When does a Lasting Power of Attorney come into effect? Can it be changed or cancelled later?

A Lasting Power of Attorney can only be used once it has been registered with the Office of the Public Guardian. A Property and Financial Affairs LPA can usually be used while you still have mental capacity if you choose to allow this, whereas a Health and Welfare LPA can only be used if you lose the ability to make decisions yourself.

An LPA can also usually be changed or cancelled later, provided you still have mental capacity. For example, you may decide to appoint a different attorney if your personal circumstances or relationships change over time.

Who should I choose as my attorney?

Your attorney should be someone you trust to make decisions in your best interests if you are ever unable to make them yourself.

Many people choose a spouse, partner, adult child, close relative or trusted friend. It is important to appoint someone who is reliable, organised and comfortable making important decisions if needed.

You should also consider whether the person understands your wishes and would feel confident acting on your behalf in the future.

What is the difference between a Will and a Power of Attorney?

A Will and a Lasting Power of Attorney are both important legal documents, but they deal with very different situations.

A Will explains what should happen to your estate after you die. A Lasting Power of Attorney allows someone you trust to make decisions on your behalf during your lifetime if you become unable to do so yourself.

Many people choose to put both in place as part of their wider future planning.

Do I need a solicitor for a Lasting Power of Attorney?

You are not legally required to use a solicitor to set up a Lasting Power of Attorney, but many people choose to seek legal advice to ensure everything is completed correctly.

Mistakes in the forms or issues with how the document is prepared can lead to delays or rejection by the Office of the Public Guardian. A solicitor can also help you understand your options, choose suitable attorneys and make sure the document reflects your wishes properly.