For my mum, we went to a solicitor as she insisted on using one, she does not like computers! But I recently did LPAs for myself which I did online. I filled the form in online then saved it so I could print off the relevant parts to post to the attorneys. The signed forms need posting to the OPG and I used recorded delivery.
I did make a mistake when sending in the forms as I did not include one sheet which was just an information sheet with nothing to fill in but as all pages were numbered, it was necessary. The OPG wrote to me and I had four weeks to return the missing paperwork before they could process it.
However, the OPG made a mistake when returning the authorised forms, there was a page missing from one of the LPAs! I had received the final paper in April but did not really check through them before filing them. But just two weeks ago I decided to scan them into my computer to send copies to my children ( the attorneys) and I am also thinking of certifying them myself so will need a paper copy. Fortunately when I phoned the OPG, they checked what they had on the system and took my word that the sheet was missing so they are going to send me another set. I was worried about the time delay but the person I spoke to was very helpful and understanding.
I am pleased that I did not use a solicitor, it really was straightforward if you read the guidance but when dealing with someone with early Alzheimers, sometimes the formality of using a solicitor is helpful. The solicitor we used certified her capacity during the meeting which was helpful.