People to Notify in an LPA: Who to Choose and Why It Matters

What "people to notify" does

In the registration process, you can name people who will be informed when an application to register the LPA is made. This creates a safeguarding window where concerns can be raised.

LP12 states this is optional, and you can name up to five people.

Why this exists

It is an anti-abuse mechanism. It helps surface concerns such as:

• Pressure on the donor
• Fraud or identity concerns
• Attorney suitability concerns

Who to pick

Good choices are people who:

• Know the donor well
• Are likely to act if something looks wrong
• Are not dependent on attorney approval

Common mistakes

• Naming people without telling them
• Listing outdated addresses
• Assuming notification means they can control decisions
• Forgetting that notification is done using form LP3 at registration stage

Notification is a safeguard channel, not an approval system.

Should everyone use this safeguard?

Not always. Some donors rely more on the certificate provider route and family transparency. But where there is complexity or potential conflict, named notifications are often sensible.

Process clarity for families

If a person is named, tell them:

• What the LPA covers
• Who attorneys are
• What kind of concerns should be raised
• That there is a time-limited objection window

Next reading

• Registering an LPA: Timescales and Costs
• Objecting to an LPA and Safeguarding Routes
• Certificate Provider Explained