A lasting power of attorney (LPA) enables you to appoint someone you trust — known as an attorney — to act on your behalf if you lose the mental capacity to make certain decisions yourself. These legal documents cover decisions relating to health and welfare, as well as property and financial matters.
Justine 54, from Sutton Coldfield, understands the importance of an LPA first-hand. Although she had encountered many through her work as a legal assistant, her mother’s LPA — put in place ahead of complex surgery — gave the concept an entirely new significance. Three years on, Justine continues to be her mother’s voice in the outside world: making decisions with her consent, arranging appointments and safeguarding her independence.
Shaped by this experience, Justine has become a passionate advocate for LPA protection at any age. She spoke to us about her journey into becoming an attorney, the changes it brought, and the reassurance it continues to provide. “Twenty years ago, the word ‘attorney’ conjured images of power suits, gavels and powdered white wigs,” she says. “I suspect it still does for many people. I’d never heard of an LPA back then, and I couldn’t have imagined how significant the term would become for me — both personally and professionally. Now, I can’t think about being an attorney without thinking of Mum, and what a privilege it is to know she chose me.
This goes to show just how important and LPA can be and the benefits, both to a donor and an attorney, are enormous. It really is “a must” in terms of your financial and later life planning…at any age!!!