Lasting Power of Attorney forms revised

20 July 2009



Parliament has been presented with a revised version of Lasting Power of Attorney forms, which are said to make it easier for someone to legally nominate another person to deal with their affairs in case of mental incapacity. Two new forms are in the pipeline, one to deal with property and financial affairs and the other relating to health and welfare.

"Users told us that the existing forms were too long and too easy to get wrong. We have listened and have delivered a step-change in design," commented Justice Minister Bridget Prentice. The original forms have been in existence since October 2007 and their revision was a result of a public consultation launched a year later.

Ms Prentice said the forms helped people select someone to make their decisions rather than hindering them should they suddenly be affected by an illness or degenerative disease. People will also be safe in the knowledge their affairs are being dealt with properly, she added.

Camilla James, elder law specialist, comments: "The redesign of the LPA forms should address many of the problems that have been brought to the attention of the Office of the Public Guardian and make the forms more user-friendly."

If you require legal advice, for either your private affairs or organisation, please call Thames Valley based B P Collins Solicitors on 01753 889995, complete the online enquiry form or email enquiries@bpcollins.co.uk.

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