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powers of attorney

The population of the United Kingdom is ageing. It is said that in the last 35 years the number of those in the UK aged over 65 grew by 31%. It is predicted that this figure will increase as time goes on.

At Ridley and Hall we think it is very important to make plans now for your old age, when you may not be able to manage your affairs due to mental or physical impairment. Whilst you retain the ability to make decisions for yourself, you should consider very carefully choosing someone to look after your finances and/or your physical welfare in the event you cannot carry out these duties. You can appoint someone to deal with these aspects by choosing an attorney.
 
Ridley and Hall can help you by:
  • advising you about general Powers of Attorney and Lasting Powers of Attorney and which may be appropriate to your circumstances
  • discussing the requirements an attorney may need to meet and who may be an appropriate choice as an attorney for you
  • drafting the necessary power of attorney document for you, and ensuring it is signed correctly by all parties
  • explaining to you the steps that need to be taken so your attorneys can commence acting under a Lasting Power of Attorney for you

For details of our pricing structure or to make an appointment please call us on 01484 538421 or contact Sue Cash , Hilary Sisson. or Jill Waddington

Please have a look at this helpful video for further information about Powers of Attorney.

 

Lasting Powers of Attorney - Frequently Asked Questions

What is an LPA?

A Lasting Power of Attorney is a document which enables another person to look after your financial affairs or your personal welfare.

Why should I make an LPA?

You are able to choose now the person or persons who you would prefer to make decisions on your behalf if you were not able to do so. You may not need a Lasting Power of Attorney now but, if you do need it at a later stage you may not be well enough to effectively sign it. Just because you sign an LPA now doesn’t mean it has to be used now or ever.

What does it cost?

Ridley and Hall charge a fixed fee of £400 plus VAT for the preparation of an LPA. (£500 plus VAT for a couple making LPAs together) This includes the application to the Office of the Public Guardian for registration of the LPA. There is a fee payable to the Office of the Public Guardian in the sum of £120.00.(However many people are exempt from the court fee which is means tested)

Who should I appoint?

You may appoint a member of your family, or, you could appoint a professional attorney and Ridley and Hall can act on your behalf.

What if it is too late?

If a person is unable to make an LPA because they have lost mental capacity, then an application must be made to the Court of Protection to appoint a Deputy to manage their financial affairs. Here at Ridley & Hall we have many years’ experience of acting as professional Deputy for clients who are no longer able to manage their own financial affairs. We are always happy to advise family members about the Court process.

I’ve got an EPA – is it still valid?

Yes, your Enduring Power of Attorney is still valid and you do not need to update it unless you have reconsidered your choice of Attorneys. An Enduring Power of Attorney will need to be registered with the Court of Protection if a person starts to become mentally incapable.