Will Writing

Your Will is such an important legal document, as it states what you want to happen to everything you own when you die. Without a Will, the laws of intestacy will determine how your possessions and money are distributed. This may result in your estate not going to the people you would have chosen.

If you have children under 18 years of age, it also allows you to specify who you would like to be their legal guardian/s. Without this, the Court will have to decide who looks after your children, and they may have to go into care for a while. If you have a pet, they too need to be considered. Your funeral wishes can also be written into a Will.

Lasting Powers of Attorney

There are two types of Lasting Powers of Attorney (LPA). These are important legal documents to have in place just in case you lose the ability to make your own decisions and look after your own affairs. One LPA refers to your finances and property, allowing you to appoint someone you trust to manage these on your behalf. You can also authorise someone else to run any business you may have. The other LPA is to do with your health and welfare. If you ever lose mental capacity, then the medical professionals will make decisions on your behalf. Your next of kin does not have an automatic right to decide what is best for you. This LPA gives decision making authority to your chosen person/people. You can specify your wishes to help guide them.

Advance Decision document and Advance Statements

Planning for a ‘good’ death, can involve completing the Advanced Decision document and Advance Statement. These let your family, carers and healthcare professionals know your wishes about medical and care treatment, should you be unable to communicate those decisions yourself.

Biography and Legacy Journals

Support and suggestions on writing your autobiography and/or Legacy Letters (e.g. letters of love to be left with your Will).