This is the second blog post contribution from Nichola, LPA Associate and Project Manager, this time answering a commonly asked question…. How do I certify a Lasting Power of Attorney if I need a copy?

How do I certify a Lasting Power of Attorney?

The intention of this short blog is to clarify why and how you would certify your Lasting Power of Attorney if you ever need a copy. Before doing this, I will briefly explain what a Lasting Power of Attorney is.

What is a Lasting Power of Attorney?

A Lasting Power of Attorney is an important legal document that lets you choose who would speak for you if you ever couldn’t speak for yourself through a sudden accident, illness or longer-term ill health. There are two different Lasting Powers of Attorney, one covers Health and Welfare and the other Property and Finance.

The person for whom the Lasting Power of Attorney is created is called the donor and the people (or persons) nominated to speak on behalf of the donor are called attorneys.

Why do I need to certify a copy of my Lasting Power of Attorney?

If you do not have your original form, you and your Attorney can use a copy, as long as it is certified.

If you have lost your original form before you could make a copy yourself, you can request a copy from The Office of the Public Guardian for a fee. You can write, phone or email your request.

How do I certify a copy of my Lasting Power of Attorney?

The Office of the Public Guardian gives the following instructions on how to certify a copy of your LPA:

https://www.gov.uk/power-of-attorney/certify

How can my LPA be certified if I have lost mental capacity?

In this case your Attorneys can ask a solicitor to certify a copy of your LPA.

Resource and Information

GOV.UK Certify a copy of a lasting power of attorney

Office of the Public Guardian Facebook video I need a copy of my LPA - how do I get one?

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