You can make changes to a lasting power of attorney by informing the Office of the Public Guardian. There are a number of circumstances in which you may wish to make changes, so let’s look at a few examples.
If you have not already made one, remember that you can make an LPA online by searching for firms that provide this service, such as powerofattorneyonline.co.uk/.
Removing an attorney
There may be circumstances in which you wish to remove an attorney. This may be because they no longer have the mental capacity to act, they have died, or you no longer trust them to carry out your wishes. You must retain the mental capacity to make decisions.
Updating an address or name
You must let the OPG know if you wish to change an address or name. The OPG will need details such as your LPA reference number and your donor details, including your date of birth and name. The details are recorded, but the LPA remains valid with the original details.
If this involves a change of name, such as after the marriage of an attorney, supporting documentation will have to be provided to confirm that the change of name is deemed legal; for example, you can supply a copy of the marriage certificate or one relating to a change of name by deed poll. These documents should be posted to the OPG.
Adding another attorney
If you choose to add an attorney, you will need to end the current lasting power of attorney and create a new one.
