A team of experts from Wake Smith will be speaking at the next Sheffield Asperger's Parents Action Group (SAPAG) meeting on the 15th July at the Carers Centre, Bells Square, advising parents of adults with Asperger's Syndrome on the legal issues they should be considering to plan for the future.
Associate Rachel Baseley and solicitor Kate Maybury from the Private Client department at the leading Sheffield solicitors firm will talk to the group about the necessary arrangements parents should consider, discussing the importance of making a will, appointing executors, making lasting powers of attorney (LPAs) and other practical issues.
Rachel Baseley said: "Kate and I were aware of the group following the involvement of Michael Elliot, a retired partner from Wake Smith & Tofields. We are both really keen to get involved and maintain the relationship as the group plays such an important role for people affected by Asperger's Syndrome in the region.
"I have been involved with a number of cases recently where parents of children on the autistic spectrum have died without wills and seen firsthand how complicated it can be when the person who stands to inherit the estate is not capable of dealing with all of the legal and financial decisions that need to be taken. These cases have really demonstrated why it's so important for parents to plan for the future and make the necessary provisions in case the worst should happen.
Kate Maybury added: "It is important for parents to ensure that their affairs will be looked after if they themselves lost capacity during their own lifetime. It is possible to appoint someone to deal with matters if a parent becomes physically or mentally incapable. It is especially important for parents of a child with a disability. In addition to discussing the importance of preparing a will, we will also be considering the merits of preparing lasting powers of attorney."
SAPAG, the information and support group, was founded in 2000 for the parents of adults or young people with Asperger's Syndrome and who live in Sheffield and South Yorkshire.
The group provides parents, partners and carers of people with Asperger's Syndrome the opportunity to meet, share experiences, access a wealth of information and gain relevant advice and support from guest speakers.
Jackie Wheeler at SAPAG said: "Wills are often a subject people will put off talking about and yet we all know how important they are. This event will highlight to all just how important it is to plan ahead, not least for those caring for people with Asperger's Syndrome. Thinking about what may happen when we're no longer around can be uncomfortable for some, but making arrangements for someone you are caring for can help to allay worries and concerns."
For more information on financial planning arrangements including LPAs and making a will please contact the Wills and Probate team on 0114 266 6660 or email [email protected].
