At this time of year we are all often so ‘busy’ with Christmas preparations that we forget to focus on what is truly important – time with precious family and friends!
In this line of work, we often see families at their very best and indeed at their very worst! In the event of death or planning for a time when loved ones are no longer here, families can become very focussed on financial gain or indeed inheritance in the future. A well drafted Will can ensure that families are well provided for. Here at Illuminate Legal in Odiham, Hampshire, we are great advocates for communication; we want our clients to talk to their families, where possible, about the arrangements they are putting in place. We want to help make the process as easy and cohesive as possible for our clients. It is always a shock for a family member to receive a lesser inheritance than expected or indeed for a beneficiary to be given a vast legacy at the surprise of other family members. There is of course freedom of testamentary capacity (ability to make your own Will and decide what goes in it) in this country. The testator or testatrix (person making the Will) has complete freedom as to how they leave their estate and no one legally has any right to see the Will until someone dies (with the odd exception in cases of grave mental incapacity). That’s not to say that communication and discussion about such matters can’t assist. Talking about decisions and the reasons for them can definitely make things easier in many cases.
Families in today’s society are fractured, scattered and complex; we understand that at Illuminate Legal. We can help make things simpler for your family and those close to you in the event of death. We can draft a Will that your family will understand, when the time comes. We know that Christmas brings families together and, if you are in need of making personal legal arrangements such as a Will or Lasting Power of Attorney, we hope that we can help you keep your family united (or remember much-loved friends) long after the Christmas cards have come down……….
Rebecca Reid, Illuminate Legal Limited, Odiham, Hampshire
