Who has more rights, next of kin or power of attorney?

A Power of Attorney has significantly more legal rights and authority than next of kin. While next of kin is primarily a social label or emergency contact status with no inherent decision-making power, a Power of Attorney is a formal legal designation granting explicit authority to manage medical or financial affairs.

Power of Attorney

  • Holds strict legal authority to act on a person’s behalf.
  • Can make financial, legal, or health choices based on the specific document type.
  • Overrides family objections or differing opinions from close relatives.
  • Becomes active or remains valid according to the terms set by the creator

Next of Kin

  • Functions as a close relative or designated emergency contact.
  • Carries no automatic legal right to make medical, legal, or financial choices for an adult.
  • Is typically consulted by hospitals for updates or general family input, but cannot legally consent to or block treatments.
  • Only holds default decision-making power if the person is a minor child.

Three simple steps to making your Lasting Power Of Attorney

1. We visit you at home

Contact us to arrange a visit to discuss your wishes and options

2. You Appoint Your Attorneys

Our legal experts completes your application before submission

3. Sign and register

We submit your application to the Office of the Public Guardian for registration

Call 0800 368 9770 For an Appointment
Contact us today