Planning for the future is an important step in protecting your wishes and helping your loved ones. Nicola Lowe of HGW Solicitors recently visited The Lantern Church in Wimborne to deliver an informative talk about making a Will and setting up Lasting Powers of Attorney.
The session gave attendees the opportunity to learn more about these important legal arrangements, with a questions and answers session providing time to discuss their concerns in a relaxed and welcoming environment.
We would like to thank Toni and Roz Hanson for inviting us. We were pleased to take part in this community event and glad to hear that people enjoyed the session.
Why is making a Will important?
Making a Will allows you to set out how you would like your estate to be distributed after your death. It can help provide clarity for your loved ones and reduce uncertainty at an already difficult time.
Without a valid Will, your estate will generally be distributed according to the rules of intestacy in England and Wales. These rules may not reflect your personal wishes or the needs of your family.
A Will can help you:
- Decide who should inherit your money, property and possessions.
- Appoint executors to administer your estate.
- Name guardians for children under 18, where appropriate.
- Consider how best to provide for your family and other beneficiaries.
- Set out your wishes clearly and reduce the potential for disputes.
Your circumstances may change over time, so it is also important to review your Will following significant life events, such as marriage, divorce, the birth of a child or a change in your financial circumstances.
What is a Lasting Power of Attorney?
A Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA) is a legal document that allows you to appoint one or more people you trust, known as attorneys, to make decisions on your behalf within the authority you give them.
There are two types of LPA in England and Wales.
Property and Financial Affairs LPA
This allows your chosen attorney or attorneys to manage matters such as paying bills, dealing with bank accounts and handling property or other financial affairs, in accordance with the document and the relevant legal requirements.
With your permission, this type of LPA can generally be used while you still have mental capacity, as well as if you later lose it.
Health and Welfare LPA
This allows your attorneys to make decisions about matters such as your daily care, medical treatment and living arrangements if you lose the mental capacity to make those decisions yourself.
A Health and Welfare LPA can only be used when you lack the mental capacity to make the relevant decision.
Both types of LPA must be made while you have the mental capacity to do so. Planning ahead gives you the opportunity to choose the people you trust and explain your wishes.
Wills and Lasting Powers of Attorney in Wimborne and Dorset
At HGW Solicitors, our Private Client team advises individuals and families on making a Will, Lasting Powers of Attorney and other estate planning matters.
We understand that discussing future plans can sometimes feel difficult. Our aim is to explain your options clearly and help you make informed decisions that reflect your circumstances and wishes.
We support clients in Wimborne, Broadstone, Christchurch, Verwood, Ferndown and the surrounding Dorset areas.
Whether you need to make your first Will, review an existing one or arrange a Lasting Power of Attorney, we can explain the process and help you understand the steps involved.
Contact HGW Solicitors
If you would like advice on making a Will or setting up a Lasting Power of Attorney, contact our Private Client team.
