Lasting Power of Attorney question

Fred_Bear_2

I am appointing my wife as attorney and my daughter as replacement attorney.

At the start of section 4 the instructions say: 'If you are appointing only one attorney and no replacement attorneys, now go to section 5'. Likewise the guidance says: 'If you are appointing only one attorney and no replacements you can cross through page 5 - whole of section 4'.

I understand this to mean that I need to complete section 4 because I do have a replacement attorney. But section 4 is only concerned with how multiple attorneys should work together, which doesn't apply as I have only one attorney.

My question is: Do I need to complete section 4 or not?

I have called the helpline but the person I spoke to wasn't sure of the answer. Before I call again I would appreciate any opinions in this forum.

Pee

I would cross through the sections that do not apply. I think that is mainly tick boxes, in which case just leave them blank.

When you have completed it, read through at least twice and double check though.

ThelmaLouise

I have recently obtained a POA for my Dad. I am the only Attorney with my sister as a replacement. I left 4 completely blank and went straight onto 5.

ThelmaLouise

correction - I actually crossed through the box! (As you need to do for any boxes which you are not completing!)

Fred_Bear_2

Thanks for the advice, that's what I will do.

Perhaps I am being pedantic, but I think the instructions should say: 'If you are appointing only one attorney and fewer than two replacement attorneys, now go to section 5'.

ThelmaLouise

You're not being pedantic at all - I think the instructions are wrong too and if I remember rightly this was also one of my queries for a solicitor friend who I got to check the form for me before posting!!