The Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA) is a legal document that allows an individual to appoint one or more persons to make decisions on their behalf in the event that they become mentally incapacitated. In Singapore, LPA certification is an important process that ensures that the appointed persons are authorized to make decisions on behalf of the individual. In this article, we will explore the different types of LPA certification in Singapore.
Types of LPA
There are two types of LPA in Singapore: the LPA for personal welfare and the LPA for property and affairs. Each type of LPA allows the appointed person or persons to make decisions on behalf of the individual in different areas.
LPA for Personal Welfare
The LPA for personal welfare allows the appointed person or persons to make decisions on behalf of the individual in matters related to their personal welfare. This may include decisions related to healthcare, living arrangements, and daily activities.
For example, if an individual becomes mentally incapacitated and is unable to make decisions about their healthcare, the appointed person or persons may be authorized to make decisions about medical treatments or procedures on their behalf.
Additionally, the appointed person or persons may be authorized to make decisions about the individual’s living arrangements, such as whether they should live in a nursing home or receive in-home care.
LPA for Property and Affairs
The LPA for property and affairs allows the appointed person or persons to make decisions on behalf of the individual in matters related to their property and financial affairs. This may include decisions related to buying or selling property, managing investments, and paying bills.
For example, if an individual becomes mentally incapacitated and is unable to manage their finances, the appointed person or persons may be authorized to make decisions about buying or selling property, managing investments, and paying bills on their behalf.
Certification Process
In order for an LPA to be valid in Singapore, it must be certified by the Office of the Public Guardian (OPG). The certification process involves several steps, including the completion of the LPA form, the appointment of a certificate issuer, and the submission of the LPA to the OPG.
The certificate issuer is a qualified professional, such as a lawyer or medical practitioner, who is authorized to certify that the individual making the LPA understands the nature and effect of the document and is making the decision voluntarily.
Additionally, the certificate issuer must certify that there is no undue influence or fraud involved in the making of the LPA. The certificate issuer must also sign the LPA form.
After the LPA form and supporting documents are submitted to the OPG, the OPG will review the documents and issue a certificate of registration if the LPA is approved. The certificate of registration confirms that the LPA is valid and that the appointed person or persons are authorized to make decisions on behalf of the individual.
Conclusion
LPA certification is an important process that ensures that the appointed person or persons are authorized to make decisions on behalf of the individual in the event that they become mentally incapacitated. In Singapore, there are two types of LPA: the LPA for personal welfare and the LPA for property and affairs.
The certification process involves several steps, including the completion of the LPA form, the appointment of a certificate issuer, and the submission of the LPA form and supporting documents to the OPG. After the LPA is approved, the OPG will issue a certificate of registration confirming that the LPA is valid and that the appointed person or persons are authorized to make decisions on behalf of the individual.
If you are considering making an LPA, it is important to work with a qualified professional, such as a lawyer or medical practitioner, to ensure that the LPA is completed correctly and that the appointed person or persons are authorized to make decisions on your behalf. By taking the time to complete an LPA and ensuring that it is certified, you can have peace of mind knowing that your affairs will be managed according to your wishes in the event that you become mentally incapacitated.