In our experience clients often consider making a Will when they consult us in connection with the buying or selling of their home.
Whilst they appreciate that it is important to have a Will but often do not fully appreciate the consequences of failing to make one. When they do so many are very surprised to learn just how important it is for them to get their affairs in order and the consequences of failing to do so.
Those clients that are in stable relationships (often with children) but are not married or civil partners are usually alarmed to find that the concept of a “common law husband” or “wife” does not exist in law. This means that if they were to die without a Will (we call this intestate) their estate would not necessarily go to their current partner and/or their offspring. The Intestacy Rules would give rights to previous partners and/or children which could cause severe financial difficulties for the current family unit.
Please feel free to contact us and ask us to go through our standard questionnaire so that we can take instructions and draft a Will for you. This can often be done without you having to call into our offices.
Lasting power of attorney
A lasting power of attorney (LPA) is a way of giving someone legal authority to make decisions on your behalf if you lack mental capacity at some time in the future or no longer wish to make decisions for yourself.
There are two types of LPA:
- For financial decisions.
- For health and care decisions
If you wish to make a Will or a Lasting Power of Attorney please call one of our Solicitors today on 0191 22 1030 or complete our website enquiry form.
