07 July 2025
A Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA) lets you choose someone to make decisions on your behalf if you lose the ability to do so due to illness, injury, or age-related conditions.While many people appoint a trusted friend or family member, there are times when appointing a professional attorney is the better option. Here’s when it may make sense to do just that.
1. You Have Complex Financial Affairs
If you have substantial assets, property, business interests, or overseas investments, you’ll want someone who can manage these with skill and care. A qualified professional such as a solicitor can handle the responsibility with the legal and financial expertise required.
2. No Suitable Family or Friends
Not everyone has someone close who is both willing and able to take on this important role. If that’s the case, a professional attorney offers an impartial and experienced alternative, providing continuity and reassurance when you need it most.
3. You Need Help with Legal or Health Matters
Depending on whether your LPA covers property and financial affairs or health and welfare, you may benefit from appointing a professional with specific expertise. For example, a solicitor for financial matters or someone with a healthcare background for medical decisions.
4. Your Chosen Attorneys Live Far Away
If your family or chosen attorneys are based overseas or at a distance, it may be more practical to appoint a local professional who can respond quickly and attend to your needs without delay.
5. You Want Legal Accuracy and Peace of Mind
Creating an LPA is not just about filling in a form. Errors or omissions can cause major issues when the LPA needs to be used. Our solicitors ensure your documents are correctly drafted and legally compliant, giving you full peace of mind.
6. Long-Term Planning
If you’re planning ahead for the long term and expect your attorneys may need to act over several years, a professional can offer continuity, stability, and regular oversight to ensure your best interests are protected throughout.
Why Choose Aldridge Brownlee Solicitors?
Our experienced Private Client team has guided individuals and families across Dorset and beyond for decades. We’re regulated by The Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA) and members of our team are accredited by organisations such as The Association of Lifetime Lawyers demonstrating our expertise in supporting older and vulnerable clients.
What Our Power of Attorney Solicitors Can Do:
We work closely with family members, carers, and local authorities to ensure decisions are made in your best interests, with the dignity and care you deserve.
Final Thought: DIY LPAs Come with Risk
While you can draft an LPA yourself, it's not recommended. Even small mistakes can make your LPA unusable. With professional support from Aldridge Brownlee, you can avoid costly errors and ensure your wishes are respected exactly as intended.
Let’s Talk About Your Future
If you're considering appointing a professional attorney or simply need advice on setting up a Lasting Power of Attorney, we're here to help.
Contact our team today to arrange a friendly, confidential conversation: Call 01202 294411 or via online: Lasting Power of Attorney
