“I haven’t got round to it…”, “I’ll do it when I’m older…”, “I’ve nothing valuable to leave behind so I don’t need to do it…”
The above are all common reasons given for not having made a will, but with an estimated 42% of over-55s* without proper provisions for the future, many people are at risk of having their estate distributed in a way that they wouldn’t choose after their death.
Lawyers from our Legal 500-rated wills, trusts & probate team are teaming up with financial experts at RT Financial Planning on 22 May, to bring a friendly advice clinic to Winchcombe. One-to-one expert advice and top tips will be shared over coffee and cake.
Partner Simon Cook said: “It’s no secret that many people put off making a will simply because it’s not a nice topic to think about. But the reality of it isn’t half as scary as it sounds, and in fact it’s an essential thing for everyone to do.
“Making a will gives you invaluable peace of mind that your estate will be distributed in the way you want it to be. As an example, if you’re living with someone you’re not married to and you don’t have a will, it is possible that your partner will not inherit anything. Even if you are married, or in a civil partnership, your whole estate may not pass automatically to your spouse/ partner. If you have no relatives at all, the government could inherit everything.”
The event, which falls on Dementia Action Week 2019 (20 – 26 May) will also provide individuals with the opportunity to ask questions and find out more about planning for the unexpected. Simon continued: “You simply do not know what the future may hold, and sadly, many dementia sufferers eventually lose the capacity to make financial and medical decisions.
“For example, creating a lasting power of attorney – which enables a person to nominate a family member or trusted friend to step in and make such decisions on their behalf if the person loses capacity to do so themselves – can save families and individuals a lot of distress and money if the worst happens. It also provides peace of mind to the individual that their matters will be dealt with by someone that they know and trust.”
“We’re looking forward to welcoming everyone for an informal chat over coffee and cake and sharing some useful tips and advice. Our goal is for people to come away feeling a lot less daunted, and more positive about the prospect of planning for the future.”
The drop-in event runs from 10am – 1pm on Wednesday 22 May at the RT Financial Planners office, Mercia House on Winchcombe’s High Street (GL54 5LJ). It is free to attend and there is no need to book.
*Survey by Macmillan Cancer Support
