Government’s plan to make Lasting Power of Attorney services safer and simpler
Aug 16, 2021
Major reforms to the Lasting Powers of Attorney (LPA) service are set to be introduced following a 12-week consultation.
Major reforms to the Lasting Powers of Attorney (LPA) service are set to be introduced following a 12-week consultation.
The changes will see the process of managing a loved one’s affairs made much simpler and more modern in the process.
They will examine the entire process of how LPAs are registered and created with a view to boosting the Office of the Public Guardian’s (OPG) powers to prevent fraud and abuse.
It will also see the introduction of a digital service using technology to reform how witnessing, access and overall speeding up the process can be improved.
The consultation will also look at making the process for objecting to the registration of an LPA much simpler with a view to stopping potentially abusive LPAs.
Lasting power of attorney was introduced in 2007 as part of the Mental Capacity Act 2005. This replaced the previous system of Enduring Power of Attorney that had been in place since 1986.
There is a common misconception that LPAs are for the elderly, but they can be made for anyone over the age of 18.
Having an LPA in place provides comfort and security for millions of people planning for later life.
The potential reforms will provide a more urgent service for those families who need an LPA granted as quickly as possible due to unforeseen circumstances.
It will also help to reduce the chances of an LPA being rejected due to avoidable errors and, with technology, make the process much easier for all involved.
The consultation runs until October 13, with any reforms being finalised following this period.
You can also learn more about our Private Client Services here.
This article must not be construed as legal advice. All cases are different on their facts and you should consult with us directly on your case.
If you would like to discuss your LPA and any other future provisions you would like to arrange, please contact a member of our Private Client team by emailing info@walkerfoster.com.
When a parent’s estate is not divided equally, or when sibling disputes arise over inheritance rights, emotions can run high, and challenging a Will can become a complex and sensitive issue. Tensions between family members can escalate, leading to legal challenges that may strain relationships and result in prolonged court proceedings.
When discussing lasting powers of attorney (LPAs) with clients, usually their immediate concern is appointing an attorney to deal with their personal affairs. But this overlooks another key question: who would run your business if you were ill, or had an accident and lost capacity?
In this blog, Walker Foster’s Wills and Probate Executive Cay Schofield shares her insights into the various planning arrangements, and how each of them can help to provide clarity and security for you and your family.
When clients come to us to discuss their Wills, they often express a common concern: “How can I avoid the need for a Grant of Probate? I want to make things easier for my family.”
Craven House, Newtown, Barnoldswick, BB18 5UQ
First Floor, 7 Victoria Avenue, Harrogate, HG1 1EQ
27 Riddings Road, Ilkley, LS29 9LX
Century House, Northallerton, DL6 2XQ
The Old White Horse, Market Place, Settle, BD24 9EF
63 Kirkgate, Silsden, Keighley, BD20 0PB
3 High Street, Skipton, BD23 1AA