The clocks have gone forward and spring time is finally upon us.
Spring is seen as the season of new beginnings, and is a great time to ensure your affairs are in order, including making a new Will and/or Lasting Power of Attorney, or reviewing an existing one that you may have made some time ago.
Jennifer Robinson, paralegal in the private client team at Wake Smith Solicitors, looks at the importance of updating your documents.
Jennifer said: “It is important, even if you have already made a Will and/or Power of Attorney, to review your documents to ensure it still suits your needs.
“It is surprising how quickly circumstances can change and your documents suddenly do not match your wishes.
“Any time a major life event occurs, such as a marriage, divorce, birth of a child, death of a family member, house sale/purchase etc. you should review your documents.”
Jennifer continues: “We often review Wills and discover the client has gone through a significant life event which means the Will is invalid or a loved one has not been mentioned.
“Did you know, if you marry or enter into a civil partnership and your Will has not referred to an expectation of marriage or civil partnership, your Will is automatically revoked.
“We also review powers of attorney and often find an attorney has died or is mentally incapable themselves, rendering the power of attorney ineffective if the donor was to lose capacity.
“As a general guide, we encourage you review your document every three to five years, or as soon as a significant life event has occurred, whichever is the earliest.
“Having a professional review your documents with you can save a lot of stress. The law can be complicated to understand and is often evolving.
“We are familiar with the law and keep up to date with any changes, therefore we can help you make the most effective choices to ensure your wishes are reflected in the document at hand.”
For more information and to book an appointment please contact the Private Client team at Wake Smith Solicitors on 0114 266 6660.
