Devonalds Solicitors Banner Image

Devonalds Blog

Services
People
News and Events
Other
Blogs

How Much Does a Solicitor Charge for Power of Attorney?

  • Posted

Setting up a lasting power of attorney (LPA) is one of the most important legal arrangements you can make. It allows someone you trust to make decisions on your behalf if you lose mental capacity or can no longer manage your affairs.

One of the first questions people ask is: how much does a solicitor charge for power of attorney?

Understanding the power of attorney cost, including solicitor fees and registration charges, can help you plan ahead and make informed decisions about whether to use professional help or handle the process yourself.

In this guide, we break down how much power of attorney costs in England and Wales, explain what you get for your money, and help you decide whether using a solicitor is the right choice for your circumstances.

If you need advice on setting up an LPA, our experienced power of attorney solicitors are here to help.

How much does it cost to set up power of attorney?

The total cost of power of attorneys typically includes two elements: solicitor fees (if you use a solicitor) and Office of the Public Guardian (OPG) registration fees.

If you choose the DIY power of attorney approach, your only cost is the £92 OPG registration fee per LPA. However, if you use a solicitor, you can expect to pay LPA solicitor fees on top of the registration charge.

At Devonalds Solicitors, we offer clear fixed fees, so you know exactly where you stand. Our current fees are £350 + VAT for a single person, which includes both a Property & Financial Affairs LPA and a Health & Welfare LPA, and £450 + VAT for a couple, covering both types of LPA for each partner. (Prices correct as of February 2026, please see our pricing page for up to date prices.)

If you need support setting up an LPA, our expert solicitors can assist you. We can also assist with related matters, such as making a Will.

What are the OPG registration fees?

The current LPA registration fee is £92 per LPA. These OPG fees apply to each LPA separately, so if you register both types of LPA, you will pay £184 in total registration fees. Once registered, your attorneys gain the legal authority to act on your behalf in accordance with the terms of the LPA.

How much do solicitors charge for LPAs?

When considering how much power of attorney costs with professional help, the total price is made up of two parts: solicitor fees and the fixed Office of the Public Guardian (OPG) registration fee.

At Devonalds Solicitors, we offer clear fixed fees, so you know exactly where you stand. For more information about our fees, please see our pricing page.

In addition to solicitor fees, there is a fixed UK Government registration fee of £92 per LPA, payable to the Office of the Public Guardian. This fee applies whether you use a solicitor or complete the process yourself.

What's included in solicitor fees for LPA?

When you instruct a solicitor to prepare your lasting power of attorney, their fees usually cover a full end-to-end service to ensure your LPA is valid and properly registered.

This typically includes an initial consultation, advice on the two types of LPA and which you need, guidance on choosing attorneys, accurate drafting of the documents, acting as the certificate provider, getting the LPA properly signed by all parties, checking for errors, and submitting the application to the Office of the Public Guardian. Using a solicitor reduces the risk of delays or invalid documents and provides reassurance that everything has been handled correctly.

Can I get a fee reduction or exemption?

The Office of the Public Guardian offers reduced or free registration fees for people on low incomes or receiving certain means-tested benefits.

  • Full exemption (£0) if you receive qualifying means tested benefits
  • 50% reduction (£46 per LPA) if your annual income is £12,000 or less before tax

Any reduction must be applied for when submitting your LPA. These reductions apply only to OPG registration fees, solicitor fees are not affected.

Is it cheaper to do power of attorney yourself?

Yes, you can do power of attorney yourself, and it is generally less expensive than using a solicitor. If you take the DIY route, the cost is limited to the £92 Office of the Public Guardian registration fee per LPA, with no solicitor fees to pay.

However, completing an LPA yourself comes with increased risks. Errors in the paperwork can delay registration or result in the LPA being rejected altogether, and there is no professional guidance to help with more complex decisions. The process can also be time-consuming and difficult to navigate without experience.

Mistakes can prove costly, as an invalid LPA may need to be redone from scratch. For those with complex finances, specific wishes, or concerns about getting everything right the first time, working with a solicitor can provide reassurance and peace of mind that your LPA will work as intended when it is needed most.

Why use a solicitor for power of attorney?

While the DIY option is cheaper, there are several reasons why many people choose to use a solicitor for their lasting power of attorney.

Solicitors ensure your LPA is completed correctly, reducing the risk of rejection by the OPG. You'll receive tailored advice on attorneys, replacement attorneys, and any restrictions or conditions. They're particularly valuable when handling complex situations involving complicated family dynamics, business interests, or specific care preferences.

The peace of mind from knowing your LPA is legally sound and will work when needed is invaluable. Additionally, solicitors manage the entire process, saving you time and stress. For many people, the cost of a solicitor is a worthwhile investment in protecting their future wishes.

How much for both types of LPA?

There are two types of LPA in England and Wales. The Property and Financial Affairs LPA allows your attorneys to manage your money, property and financial decisions, while the Health and Welfare LPA allows your attorneys to make decisions about your medical treatment and personal care.

Most people choose to put both types of LPA in place to ensure comprehensive protection. If you complete the process yourself, the cost is limited to the £184 Office of the Public Guardian registration fees (£92 for each LPA).

At Devonalds Solicitors, we offer transparent fixed fees. Our current fees are £350 + VAT for a single person, which includes both a Property & Financial Affairs LPA and a Health & Welfare LPA, and £450 + VAT for a couple, covering both types of LPA for each partner. (Prices correct as of February 2026, please see our pricing page for up to date prices.)

Are there hidden costs?

Reputable solicitors are transparent about their fees, and there should be no hidden costs if you receive a clear quote upfront.

Potential additional costs include certified copies of your registered LPA (typically £35 each from the OPG), courier fees if documents need secure posting, amendments after drafting, and certificate provider fees.

Always ask for a full breakdown of costs before instructing a solicitor. At Devonalds we ensure that our fees are transparent and that clients understand exactly what’s included.

Can I pay in instalments?

The Office of the Public Guardian requires registration fees to be paid upfront when you submit your LPA application. These fees cannot be paid in instalments.

However, many solicitors offer flexible payment options for their professional fees, including payment plans spread over several months, deferred payment arrangements, and the option for family members to pay on your behalf. If cost is a concern, discuss payment options with your solicitor at the outset.

If you require advice with related services, such as Wills and probate, our expert Wills & probate solicitors are here to help.

Speak to our Power of Attorney solicitors

If you need help setting up a lasting power of attorney, or want to discuss the costs involved, our specialist team is here to help.

Contact your local Devonalds office at BridgendCaerphillyChurch VillageTylorstownTonypandyTalbot GreenTreorchy or Pontypridd to talk to one of our expert South Wales probate solicitors today.

You can call us on 01443 779050 or use our simple contact form, and we will get back to you as soon as possible.