Ideally, a Lasting Power of Attorney is set up well in advance of when it is likely to be needed. But this means that over the years, the document could go missing. Fortunately, with a few simple steps, you can certify your LPA to make a copy.
What Is an LPA?
An LPA is a legal document where you state who would act on your behalf if you are incapacitated. There are two types of LPA. One covers finance and property and the other health and welfare. Your UK power of attorney can be drawn up by a solicitor or through a company like //powerofattorneyonline.co.uk/.
Making a Copy
To have a legal copy, you will need it to be certified. If you have not copied the original form and no longer have it, you can request a copy by emailing, phoning or writing to the Office of the Public Guardian. This will incur a fee.
To certify it, you must use the text set out by the Office of the Public Guardian. This says that at the bottom of each page, you should write: “I certify this is a true and complete copy of the corresponding page of the original lasting power of attorney.” And on the final page, you should also write, “I certify this is a true and complete copy of the lasting power of attorney.” Additionally, you must put your signature and the date on every page.
If you have lost the capacity to do this, a solicitor can certify a copy on your behalf.
Leave a Reply