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Why Powers of Attorney matter

If you become unable to make decisions - whether temporarily or permanently - your loved ones may need legal authority to act on your behalf. Without a Power of Attorney, they could face a lengthy and costly application to the Court of Protection.

By planning ahead, you stay in control of who makes decisions for you and how.

Lasting Powers of Attorney (LPAs)

LPAs are legal documents that remain valid even if you lose mental capacity. You can choose who acts for you, what they can do, and when they can step in.

There are two types:

Property and Financial Affairs LPA
This allows your Attorney(s) to manage your finances - bank accounts, pensions, bills, and even property. It can be used while you still have capacity but need support, or if you lose capacity in the future.
Health and Welfare LPA
This can only be used if you’re no longer able to make decisions yourself. It covers your care, living arrangements, and medical treatment - including decisions about life-sustaining care.

We’ll help you prepare and register your LPAs with the Office of the Public Guardian, making the process straightforward and stress-free.

Other types of Power of Attorney

General Power of Attorney

Useful for short-term or specific situations - like if you’re abroad - this allows someone to manage your financial affairs immediately. However, it becomes invalid if you lose mental capacity, so it’s not suitable for long-term planning.
Enduring Power of Attorney (EPA)

If you made an EPA before October 2007, it’s still valid. EPAs only cover financial matters and don’t need to be registered unless you begin to lose capacity. We recommend reviewing any existing EPA to ensure it still meets your needs - and consider adding a Health and Welfare LPA to cover personal decisions.

Why Choose Porter Dodson?

Recognised excellence – Ranked in both The Legal 500 and Chambers & Partners for our expertise in private client services, including Wills, Trusts, and Probate.

Clear, compassionate advice – We speak your language, not legal jargon, and tailor our guidance to your personal circumstances.

Seamless planning - guiding you through the registration process.

Here when you need us - We can Act as your Attorney if you don’t have someone suitable

We’re here to make sure your wishes are respected, whatever the future brings.

I have used Porter Dodson over very many years. Their level of personal service, professionalism and understanding is incomparable. I would be very happy to recommend and appoint Porter Dodson for any legal advice. In particular I would like to express my personal thanks to Vicki Thyer who has advised, guided me and given me such confidence through several matters but very recently the recent probate of my late Father. I cannot thank you enough.

Andrew

It has always been a great pleasure to deal with Marie as she is friendly, warm and courteous and what is more, she has always responded promptly to my emails as well as answering any queries I may have had in a most helpful and reassuring manner which I have very much appreciated. Based on my recent experience, I wouldn't hesitate to recommend Marie's professional services.

Catherine

As Executor for my late husband ‘s will, I have been impressed by the service I have received from Porter Dodson Solicitors Wellington. Without exception, I have been treated with courtesy and kindness by the staff members I have had contact with throughout the process of obtaining Grant of Probate. Their professionalism is outstanding and I have been kept informed throughout. I have no hesitation in using their services in the future should the occasion arise. I felt their fees are reasonable and kept to the minimum where possible.

Judith

Ellice was very helpful and professional, she guided us through each stage of the documents that we completed and was very patient with us.

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