Power of Attorney Solicitors in East Sussex

Hart Reade are experienced Power of Attorney Solicitors in East Sussex. We have offices in Eastbourne,  Hailsham, and Polegate. We can assist and advise you on all aspects of setting up your Lasting Powers of Attorney.

Many of our clients will get to a stage when they want to ensure that all their affairs are organised and in place. It will save time as well as possible heartbreak to organise relevant paperwork before potential issues arise.

How do I put a Power of Attorney in place?

There are formalities to be followed when creating Lasting Powers of Attorney and they must be signed by you and your Attorney and witnessed in a particular order. In addition, someone else must certify that you understand the nature and scope of the Lasting Power of Attorney and  that you have not been unduly pressured into making the power. Our team can advise you on matters to consider and additional powers or instructions to include. This often requires specialist wording, depending on your particular circumstances and wishes.

The Lasting Power of Attorney must be registered with the Office of Public Guardian before it can be used. A Property & Affairs Lasting Power of Attorney can be used (at your direction) before you lose the mental ability to deal with your own finances or if you lack the capacity to make financial decision yourself. A Health & Welfare Lasting Power of Attorney can only be used if you lack mental capacity to make welfare or medical decisions for yourself.

Existing Enduring Powers of Attorney made before 1 October 2007 will continue to be valid. They will only apply to your property and affairs. If you wish someone to be able to make decisions regarding your health treatment, welfare matters and even being cared for at home or in residential care, you will need to make a Health & Welfare Lasting Power of Attorney.