Q1. How do I put in place a will or lasting power of attorney with the restrictions on travel and social distancing?
A1. Under normal circumstances our preference would be to meet in person but for your safety and that of our advisers, we currently offer consultations by video or telephone. We can use most technologies you are used to using including Zoom, Skype, WhatsApp and of course the phone. All our team are used to working remotely as we have done it for years and always offered consultations via such methods as some clients may live some distance away or they just prefer to communicate using technology. Whatever method you choose, you can be assured of the same high-quality level of advice, professionalism and a friendly face as if we were meeting in person. Signing and witnessing of your wills, under the law as it currently stands, requires that you sign in the presence of at least two witnesses which is more of a challenge, but we will explain to you how to achieve this whilst still remaining safe and providing you with a legally compliant will. Lasting Power of Attorneys don’t have the same restrictions. So, there is no reason not to complete a will or Lasting Power of Attorney, and it’s arguably more important than ever to put in place these important papers now to protect you and your loved ones.
Q2. What steps can I take to ensure my family are properly covered?
A2. The only way to give certainty that your wishes are carried out on your death is to put in place a legally valid will. This is particularly important if you are not married or in a civil partnership because legally you are not entitled to anything from a common law partner. Similarly, if you have young children then the only way to ensure they are looked after by people you wish, is to appoint guardians in your will. Making a will is an excellent way to provide for your loved ones and ensure that for example vulnerable people are adequately provided and cared for and assets protected against creditors. Wills can also help mitigate against inheritance tax, especially an issue for those living here in and around Worthing.
Whilst you are still alive then it may come as a shock to you that just because you are married say then it doesn’t give your spouse the legal right to act on your behalf, access bank accounts and decide on how you are cared for. The only way to give certainty as to who can act on your behalf if you say lost mental capacity, is to appoint attorneys through a Lasting Power of Attorney. It’s too late to make a Lasting Power of Attorney if you lose mental capacity!
Please plan ahead and give certainty by putting in place wills and Lasting Power of Attorneys now, whilst you are still able to do so.
Q3. How is the best way to discuss my options to ensure we have the right cover?
A3. Please simply get in touch with us to make a free no obligation appointment. We will happily advise you and review any current wills or lasting power of attorney documents that you may currently have in place to ensure they are still valid, appropriate to your circumstances and reflect any changes that there may have been in the law since you put them in place. It costs you nothing to chat with us. We are very friendly and approachable but equally professional and will tell you the truth. If we feel you don’t need to do anything then we will tell you! Please either call or email us using the details below and we will be delighted to hear from you.
Stanford Legal Services/Stanford Wills is the trading name of 4 Momentum Limited. Registration Number: 05391425
