Plain-English answer · England and Wales
Can I make a lasting power of attorney myself?
Yes. The Office of the Public Guardian provides an official online service and paper forms. A straightforward LPA can often be completed without paying a professional, but the people, powers and wording you choose still deserve careful thought.
What the free official route provides
GOV.UK lets you prepare an LPA online or download the forms and guidance. You choose your attorneys, decide how they will act, identify a certificate provider and arrange the required signatures before registration.
What a professional is being paid to do
Professional assistance may add value by testing whether appointments will work in practice, drafting workable instructions and spotting conflict, pressure or capacity concerns. Paying someone to type into a free form is different from paying for legal judgement.
When DIY may not be enough
Get specialist help where the consequences of unsuitable wording or a disputed decision could be serious.
- There is doubt about capacity or freedom from pressure.
- Family members disagree or there is a risk of financial abuse.
- You want detailed restrictions or instructions.
- The donor owns a business or has complex or overseas assets.
- An attorney may have a conflict of interest.
Official sources
Use these to check the current official position before acting.
This page provides general information only. It is not legal, tax, financial, pension or care-funding advice. Obtain independent advice from appropriately qualified professionals before acting.