You can include preferences and instructions in a Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA) that you make. They’re similar in sound, but they’re very different in function, and getting them wrong could result in delays or make the LPA unusable.
The simple difference:
Preferences are guidance. They instruct your solicitor on what you want to happen.
Instructions are rules. They dictate to your lawyer what needs (or does not need) to be done.
If an instruction is vague, overly prescriptive, or inconsistent with legal requirements, it could create difficulties at the registration stage or later when your attorney needs to perform their functions. For Power of Attorney Hertfordshire, visit https://beesandco.com/our-services/power-of-attorney/hertfordshire/
How instructions can backfire
Common issues include:
Too specific (e.g., naming a bank account that later changes)
Blocking pragmatic decisions, e.g., My house must never be sold, regardless of whether we need to pay for care.
Not being able to get impossible approvals (for example, all decisions should be agreed upon by three people after we lost one of them)
Confusing the two types of Lasting Power Of Attorney (Health and welfare vs property and financial affairs)
How to write them safely
A top tip: try to keep instructions succinct, straightforward and manageable.
Preferences for values and priorities (comfort, proximity to family, moral investing).
Only use instructions on occasions that there is confidence they will not block a sensible decision.
Words like never and always should be avoided unless you really mean it.
If you are in doubt, get guidance before submitting. A properly drafted preference respects your wishes, while giving some discretion to your attorney.




