Create a lasting power of attorney for when a person cannot control their affairs

People may wish to create a lasting power of attorney so that another person is in place to control their property, money and wellbeing should they be unable to.

By doing this they are putting their wishes in place while they still can and may also save their loved ones the expense of having to go to the Court of Protection to make decisions for them if they later lose the mental capacity to do so.

Those who want to create this position should choose a trusted individual to fulfil the role and then register them with the Office of the Public Guardian so that it is legally in place.

The importance of choosing this person carefully was highlighted this year when Helen Wetherill was handed a jail sentence at Lincoln Crown Court.

She had stolen money from a multiple schlerosis sufferer who she had power of attorney over, the Lincolnshire Echo reported.

In addition, those seeking lasting power of attorney should know that it is possible for people to fill in the LPA001 and LPA002 forms themselves, however they may wish to seek legal advice if some matters are more complex.

Published by Hannah Carr