Enduring Powers of Attorney

Lasting Powers of Attorney (LPAs) replaced Enduring Powers of Attorney (EPAs) in 2007, when the Mental Capacity Act came into force.

Before October 2007, people could grant an EPA so a trusted person could act for them if they could no longer manage their finances. An EPA remains valid whether or not it has been registered at the Court of Protection, provided that both the donor of the Power and the attorney/s signed the document prior to 1 October 2007.

An EPA can be used while you still have mental capacity, provided you consent to its use. If you start to lose the mental capacity to manage your finances, your attorney/s are under a duty to register your with the Office of the Public Guardian (OPG). While the registration is being processed, your attorney/s can use your finances for essentials on your behalf such as paying for food or payment of regular bills. However, they will not be able to deal with larger transactions such as the sale of your house until the has been registered.

If you have an EPA, or you are the attorney of an EPA and need any advice then our specialist Private Client team will be able to help. Don’t worry if visiting the office is difficult for you, as a member of our team will be happy to come to your home.

To find out more or to speak to someone, call 0151 236 8871, email info@morecrofts.co.uk or use our contact form.