Many people assume that their loved ones can automatically make decisions for them if they become unwell or lose capacity but that isn’t the case. Without a Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA), even close family members may have no legal authority to manage your finances, access your bank accounts or make healthcare decisions on your behalf.
At Challenor Gardiner Solicitors in Oxford, we help clients set up LPAs to ensure their wishes are respected and life runs as smoothly as possible if the unexpected happens.
What Is a Lasting Power of Attorney?
An LPA is a legal document that allows you (the ‘donor’) to appoint one or more trusted people (your ‘attorneys’) to make decisions on your behalf if you become unable to do so in the future.
There are two main types:
- Property and Financial Affairs LPA – covers managing money, paying bills, dealing with property, pensions and investments.
- Health and Welfare LPA – covers decisions about your healthcare, medical treatment and daily living, including where you live.
Why Having an LPA Matters
Without an LPA:
- Your family may have to apply to the Court of Protection to gain control – a slow and costly process.
- Bills might go unpaid, and vital decisions could be delayed.
- Medical and care decisions may be made by professionals unfamiliar with your personal wishes.
With an LPA:
- You stay in control by choosing who makes decisions for you.
- Your affairs can continue smoothly without disruption.
- You gain peace of mind knowing your loved ones won’t face unnecessary stress.
Who Should Consider an LPA?
LPAs aren’t just for older people. They’re useful for anyone regardless of age or health, because illness, accidents or loss of capacity can happen unexpectedly.
We often advise clients to make LPAs at the same time as they make or update their Will, so their affairs are fully protected.
Common Myths About LPAs
“I don’t need one until I’m older.”
Capacity can be lost suddenly through illness or accident — it’s best to plan early.
“My spouse can automatically act for me.”
Not true – banks, doctors and care homes need legal authority through an LPA.
“It’s complicated.”
With professional guidance, setting up an LPA is straightforward and affordable.
How Challenor Gardiner Can Help
Our experienced Private Client team in Oxford can:
- Explain the options and help you decide who to appoint as attorneys.
- Prepare and register your LPAs with the Office of the Public Guardian.
- Ensure the documents reflect your personal circumstances and wishes.
We take the time to guide you through each step with clear, practical advice.
A Lasting Power of Attorney gives you control and peace of mind for the future. If you’d like to discuss setting one up, or to review your existing arrangements, our team at Challenor Gardiner Solicitors, Oxford, is here to help. Give us a call on 01865 721451, email us on info@challenor-gardiner.co.uk or complete our Free Online Enquiry form.
