Enhanced LPA Service
Extra support where capacity needs careful consideration or illness makes the usual appointment and signing arrangements difficult.
Making a Lasting Power of Attorney sometimes requires more time, communication support and a detailed record of the person’s understanding. Fern’s enhanced service provides an assessment and written report, with the practical arrangements agreed before work begins.
Fees
| Service | Preparation and registration management | Enhanced assessment and report | Total professional fee |
|---|---|---|---|
| One LPA | £350 | £300 | £650 |
| Both LPAs for one person | £500 | £300 | £800 |
The Office of the Public Guardian charges a separate registration fee of £92 per LPA. Some applicants qualify for a reduction or exemption.
The £300 enhanced fee is charged once for the agreed work. Where Wills and LPAs are being prepared together, it is not charged separately for each service. The documents themselves are charged at their applicable preparation fees.
The scope is confirmed in writing before booking. Where more than one person is involved, each person’s understanding and instructions must be considered individually.
What the enhanced service includes
The enhanced element covers preparation for the appointment, additional time to consider the person’s understanding and instructions, and a written report explaining the outcome and next steps.
A home visit is arranged by mutual agreement. Please tell me beforehand about communication difficulties, fatigue, mobility, visiting restrictions or difficulty signing so that suitable arrangements can be discussed.
Where I am satisfied that the requirements are met and I am eligible to act, I can also act as the LPA certificate provider.
The service does not include a second return signing visit. Any additional attendance must be agreed separately.
Arranging the appointment
A relative or other contact can provide background information and help organise the appointment. The person making the LPA does not need to be able to hold a preliminary telephone conversation with me.
The £300 enhanced assessment fee is payable in full before the visit.
During the appointment, I need to establish the person’s own understanding and wishes, using appropriate communication support. A family member can help with practical information but cannot make the LPA decisions for them.
Preparation and registration
Where I am satisfied that it is appropriate to proceed, the preparation fee covers preparing the agreed LPA documents, signing guidance, checking the returned paperwork, and submitting and managing the registration application.
Neither payment nor attendance guarantees that I will be able to proceed or sign the certificate.
Possible outcomes and payment
Following the assessment, I may be satisfied that we can proceed, recommend independent specialist evidence, or conclude that I cannot proceed.
Once the agreed assessment and written report are completed, the £300 enhanced fee is payable regardless of the conclusion.
If you have paid the full service fee in advance and preparation does not begin, the unused preparation payment is returned. If preparation has already begun, charges reflect the work completed. Incomplete work and unused advance payments are dealt with proportionately under the agreed terms and applicable rights.
Any independent specialist assessment is a separate service. Its cost will be explained and agreed before it is arranged.
The standard LPA service
Where an enhanced assessment is not required, Fern’s standard fee is £350 for one LPA or £500 for both LPAs for one person.
This includes preparation, signing guidance, checking the completed documents, and submitting and managing registration. You arrange your own suitable certificate provider; I can explain the requirements and offer guidance.
Both routes require the person making the LPA to have the necessary capacity. Choosing the standard service does not remove the certificate provider’s responsibilities.
My professional background
I have training in the Mental Capacity Act 2005, undertake continuing professional development concerning capacity assessment for Wills and powers of attorney, and hold a Level 2 dementia care qualification.
My assessment forms part of my professional service. It is not a clinical diagnosis or an independent medical opinion. Where the circumstances require specialist expertise, I will explain this.
Discuss your circumstances
Please contact Fern before booking if there are concerns about understanding, communication or signing. We can discuss the appropriate service, practical arrangements and agreed fees.
