v AVAILABLE ON ALL DEVICES v 17th September 2026 • The HERALD • Page 75 ASK A PROFESSIONAL Choosing The Right Attorney For Your Lasting Power Of Attorney Advice from TMT Legal Services Planning for the future can feel daunting, but setting up a Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA) is one of the most important steps you can take to protect your interests and give your loved ones peace of mind. An LPA is a legal document that allows you to appoint someone you trust, known as an attorney, to make decisions on your behalf if you become unable to do so yourself. These decisions could relate to your nances and property, or your health and welfare. Choosing the right attorney is a crucial part of the process. The person you appoint may one day be responsible for managing your money, paying bills, making decisions about your care, or ensuring your wishes are respected. Because of this, trust is essential. Many people choose a spouse, partner, adult child, close family member, or trusted friend. The best choice is someone who understands your values, is reliable and is willing to take on the responsibility. It is important to think carefully about who would be able to make decisions calmly and act in your best interests if the need arose. Before naming an attorney, have an open conversation with them about the role. Discuss your wishes, preferences and any concerns you may have about future decisions. Making your expectations clear now can help avoid misunderstandings later and ensure your attorney feels comfortable with the responsibility. You can also appoint more than one attorney. This can provide additional reassurance, as responsibilities can be shared and important decisions can bene t from more than one viewpoint. Many people also choose replacement attorneys who can step in should an original attorney become unable to act. In some cases, a professional such as a lawyer may be appointed as an attorney. is can be helpful where nancial a airs are more complex or where there is no suitable family member or friend available. A Lasting Power of Attorney is about more than legal paperwork. It is about ensuring that, whatever the future may bring, someone you trust is able to make decisions that re ect your wishes and best interests. Taking the time to choose the right attorney today can provide valuable peace of mind for both you and your family. If you would like advice about making an LPA or want to understand more about how they work, TMT Legal Services is here to help. You are welcome to visit our o ces in Hythe, Chandlers Ford or Bitterne Village. You can also call us on: 0333 188 4758, email: enquiry@tmtlegalservices. co.uk or visit: www. tmtlegalservices.co.uk for further information. Kelly Dawkins Head of Private Client at TMT Legal Services
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