Can I do my own Lasting Power Of Attorney?

28th January 2026

Can I do my own Lasting Power Of Attorney? Creating a Lasting Power of Attorney can definitely be done without a solicitor, but strict rules still apply. Understand your options so you can choose the right approach and avoid mistakes that could delay registration of your LPA.

Is a DIY Power of Attorney legally compliant?

Yes, a DIY Power of Attorney will be legal if it meets all the requirements set out by the OPG. You can complete the official LPA forms yourself, either at .GOV online or on paper, and submit them for registration. As long as the forms are completed correctly, signed in the right order and witnessed properly, the LPA will be valid.

Small errors do cause rejection or delays though, which is something to weigh up if you need the LPA urgently.

Are there any risks in doing a Power of Attorney myself?

The main risk is making what we’d term a ‘technical mistake’. Common examples of this include missing signatures, incorrect dates or using the wrong witness. These are the type of errors that can lead to the Office of the Public Guardian declining the application, delaying registration by weeks or months.

Another risk to consider is any misunderstanding around how attorneys should act, which can create confusion later on when the document is actually being used. Poorly worded preferences and instructions can also restrict the role of your attorneys unintentionally.

What are my options for creating a Power of Attorney?

There are three main ways to create a LPA in the UK.

• You can complete the forms yourself using the .GOV website and submit them directly. This is the lowest cost option, but requires careful attention to detail and an ability to navigate the government legalese.
• A well-used alternative is an online LPA service like Power of Attorney Online to guide you through the process. This service will include checks, support, and plain spoken English, reducing the risk of mistakes while still being more affordable than a traditional solicitor.
• Finally, you could instruct a solicitor to draft and submit the LPA for you. This offers the highest level of legal oversight, but is usually the most expensive option and can be overkill, depending on your circumstances.

What help do online Power of Attorney services provide?

An online service provides step by step guidance, avoids legal jargon and checks for common errors. Ensuring they offer customer support and reminders for signing and registration is a must aswell.

This type of approach combines convenience with added reassurance, which is helpful for people who want confidence in the application and registration process without the cost of full legal advice.

Is there a more reliable way to ensure your LPA is valid?

The most reliable approach is to use a trusted online service or a solicitor to ensure any level of complexity is catered for and taken into account.

For straightforward cases, a careful DIY application can be valid, but you must follow the official guidance precisely, which can be beyond some people given the technical nature of the language used.

Does getting it spot on really matter?

A Lasting Power of Attorney will only work as intended if it is valid and registered. If it is rejected or delayed, your loved ones may have no legal authority to help you, probably when you need it most. This can lead to stress, court applications and extra costs down the line.