As a result of lockdown, many residents in Essex have found themselves with more spare time at home. With this in mind, we at Andrew Douglas Wills & Legal Services have compiled our top three ‘lockdown’ legal tasks to be completed for estate planning during lockdown:
- Write your Will
Whilst most people are aware of the purpose of a Will, a shocking two-thirds of UK adults are yet to write one! If you die intestate your belongings and assets will be distributed according to the laws of intestacy. By recording your wishes in a legally valid Will, you are ensuring that your loved ones will receive the inheritance that you would wish for them to have should the worst happen through estate planning during lockdown.
- Review your Will
It is advisable to review your Will at least every five years, or following a major life event such as the birth of a child, or the purchase of a large asset. You should ensure that your assets are accurately recorded and you should also ensure that your choice of Executor is still suitable, and if applicable, your choice of guardian for your children. If you need to amend your Will in any way, you should discuss your options with your chosen Solicitor.
- Consider a Lasting Power of Attorney
Sadly, every day we are faced with the news of more people facing hospitalization due to complications of Covid-19. In some cases, this has resulted in the need for patients to be put into a medical coma and placed on a ventilator. Unfortunately, should this happen to you, this could cause legal issues if the proper paperwork is not in place for your loved ones to be able to make medical or financial decisions on your behalf. This can leave loved ones in a difficult position especially, for example, if they need to access finances to be able to pay household bills whilst you are incapacitated. There are two types of LPA available, one for health and welfare decisions, and one for financial decisions. Should you feel that either or both of these documents would be appropriate for you and your family as part of your estate planning during lockdown, you should contact a specialist Solicitor such as Andrew Douglas Wills & Legal Services, who will be able to discuss your needs further.
At Andrew Douglas Wills and Legal Services, we are providing a fully remote service to allow you to complete your estate planning during lockdown. Therefore, this means that we can continue to advise clients and offer our full range of legal services whilst strictly observing social distancing requirements. As specialists in the field of Wills and associated legal services, Andrew Douglas Wills & Legal Services offer an expert yet friendly service, therefore if you would like any advice on your Will or an LPA, contact us today to arrange your no-obligation free initial consultation.
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