Lasting Power of Attorney Bill backed by Government

Following the second reading last Friday of the Lasting Power of Attorney Bill that has been put forward by Conservative Stephen Metcalf, the UK Government has backed the proposal to modernise the unnecessarily complicated process.

Due to the historical reliance of lasting power of attorney applications being submitted to the Office of the Public Guardian (OPG) in paper format, there have been long delays and unnecessary complications. 

Metcalf’s Bill aims to allow lasting power of attorney agreements to be made completely online along with providing an improved paper process for those that do not have access to or are unable to use the internet.

During the Commons debate, Metcalf said the Office of the Public Guardian is ‘drowning in paperwork’ and ‘The OPG reports that it is taking up to 20 weeks on average to process an LPA application, against its target of eight weeks. Others will be receiving letters from constituents asking for assistance, as they are left unable to support their loved ones because an LPA is currently sitting in that backlog’.

A lasting power of attorney is a legal document that gives someone the legal right to handle another person’s individual affairs should they lose the mental capacity to do so themselves, such as their finances and healthcare. By allowing the LPA to be made completely online the Ministry of Justice believes that the process will reduce errors along with waiting times for the UK public.

There have however been concerns raised by The Law Society that the Bill does not address the need for LPA certification to include consideration of the donor’s capacity in order to protect those who may be vulnerable and face the consequences of appointed attorneys making poor decisions. These concerns were also highlighted during the second reading by shadow minister Alex Cunningham. 

The Bill will now be progressed and reviewed by the Public Bill Committee to debate and consider amendments to the Bill. 

Do I need to set up an LPA?

An LPA is there to protect you should the unexpected happen, whether it's ill health, dementia or even being involved in a life-changing accident. 

With Wills.Services, you can appoint a lasting power of attorney using our streamlined online services for a fraction of the price of using high street solicitors. For only £110  (includes VAT), you can save yourself and your loved ones the stress of unwanted legal proceedings whilst gaining peace of mind that everything is set up correctly should the unexpected happen.

You can get started with your legally-binding LPA today here at Wills.Services. All you need to do is tap the button below to register and answer a few simple questions. 

Our helpful legal team and advisors are also on hand to help and provide peace of mind, should you have any questions or concerns with your application.

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