• March 28, 2024
 Concerns raised over online LPAs

Concerns raised over online LPAs

Concerns have been raised over the online tool which enables Lasting Powers of Attorney to be created online.

Launched by the Government in 2014 through the Office of the Public Guardian, the tool allows the documents to be created without the need for professional advice.

However, new research has indicated that this online tool may not always be the best option for vulnerable and elderly people, hindering them in later life and increasing the chance of them being exposed to risk.

A report published by an SFE led coalition of organisations has drawn attention to the numerous problems which could arise if an LPA is created without the provision of specialist advice. These range from economic factors such as higher additional application fees, to the more serious problem of being left with a legal document which will not be effective.

Also highlighted in the report was the possibility of a totally online system, which would remove the need for a physical signature. Whilst the movement toward technology has largely been embraced in terms of speed and convenience, the main concerns stem from the risk of fraud and being able to ascertain that the contents of the LPA truly reflects the wishes of the individual concerned.

The concerns are further exacerbated by the growth in LPAs which has occurred over recent years. Although this may be partially down to the launch of the online tool itself and awareness around improved accessibility, it may also be attributed to the ageing population. As people are living longer, the chances of them considering an LPA are only set to increase.

Whilst increased awareness around LPAs can only be a good thing, it remains to be seen how the Government will respond to these concerns. A recent report from the OPG stated that in order to strike a balance between ’empowering and safeguarding’, it is willing to take risks.

Although it’s clear that the Government’s aim is to protect older and more vulnerable people, this seems to suggest that they are not totally risk-averse.

Georgia Owen

Georgia is the Senior Content Executive and will be your primary contact when submitting your latest news. While studying for an LLB at the University of Liverpool, Georgia gained experience working within retail, as well as social media management. She later went on to work for a local newspaper, before starting at Today’s Wills and Probate.