Ask a solicitor: The difference between a will and enduring power of attorney

An Enduring Power of Attorney is a legal document by which a person appoints trusted individuals to make decisions on their behalf.

Dear Karen 

My elderly uncle owns a farm and is becoming increasingly conscious of the need to put his affairs in order. He intends to make a Will, but he has also been advised to consider putting an Enduring Power of Attorney in place. He is in good health at present, but he is concerned about what might happen if he were to lose capacity in the future. What exactly is an Enduring Power of Attorney, and what are the current requirements, particularly in light of the new Decision Support Service?