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Power of Attorney

Law books

A lasting power of attorney (LPA) allows someone to choose who they trust to manage their affairs if they lose mental capacity. A person must have mental capacity to make an LPA and it must be registered with the Office of the Public Guardian.

There are two types of LPA: one for property and finance and one for health and welfare decisions. A health and welfare LPA only comes into effect when you lose mental capacity.

Your next of kin does not have legal powers to make health decisions for you without being appointed as an LPA.

Please visit the Office of the Public Guardian's website to find out more.

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