🧠 Who Would Speak For You?
- sarahhitchengibbon
- Sep 10
- 2 min read
Why a Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA) Matters More Than You Think
When most people think about planning for the future, they think about making a will. That’s important - but it only covers what happens after you’ve passed away.
What about while you're still here… but no longer able to make decisions for yourself?
That’s where a Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA) comes in.
At SHG Law, we talk to people every day who want to protect their loved ones and stay in control of their future - no matter what happens. LPAs are one of the most powerful tools to help you do just that.
Let’s break it down.
🧾 What Is an LPA?
A Lasting Power of Attorney is a legal document that lets you appoint someone you trust to make decisions on your behalf if you're unable to do so yourself.
There are two types:
Health & Welfare LPA
Medical care
Life-sustaining treatment decisions
Where you live and daily wellbeing
Property & Financial Affairs LPA
Managing bank accounts
Paying bills
Selling property or managing investments
You can choose one, or both - depending on what matters to you.
❓ Why Would I Need One?
We all hope to stay sharp and independent forever. But none of us know what life might throw our way.
Without an LPA:
Your loved ones don’t automatically get the right to act for you.
They’d need to apply to the Court of Protection — a costly, time-consuming and often stressful process.
It could mean delays in accessing money or making urgent medical decisions.
Having an LPA in place means your voice is still heard — through the people you’ve chosen.
👥 Who Should I Appoint?
This is a deeply personal choice. Most people choose:
A spouse or partner
An adult child
A trusted friend or sibling
A professional attorney (like SHG Law) if no suitable person is available
You can also appoint more than one person and choose whether they act together or separately.
✅ When Should I Make an LPA?
Right now — while you still have full mental capacity.
Many people think LPAs are only for the elderly. In reality, they’re for anyone who wants to be prepared — including those:
With children or dependants
With property or businesses
In high-risk jobs or with medical conditions
Who want peace of mind, just in case
Making an LPA doesn’t mean giving up control. You stay in charge until the moment you can’t be - and only then does your attorney step in.
💗 Why SHG Law?
We know this process can feel overwhelming. At SHG Law, we make it simple, warm, and totally jargon-free.
We’ll walk you through:
Who to choose
How to protect your wishes
How to register your LPA properly with the Office of the Public Guardian
You’ll get expert support - with a human touch.
✍️ Ready to Take Control?
Creating a Lasting Power of Attorney is one of the most empowering and loving things you can do — for yourself, and for those who care about you.
📩 Contact us today at info@shglaw.co.uk or by phone on 01282 914099 or 01422 730120 to get started or book a no-obligation
consultation.
Comments