Wills and LPAs

Wills

Wills are possibly the most important document that you will prepare. Not only does your Will define how your estate is divided to those who you wish to benefit but you can use them to name people to look after young children and your pets, how and where you wish to be buried or cremated. Without a valid will your estate will be divided up according to the laws of intestacy which could result in an unnecessary inheritance tax burden and your loved ones not receiving your estate in the way in which you would like. Dying intestate (i.e. without a will) can place an unnecessary burden at a very difficult time for your family.

Lasting Powers of Attorney

These are of great importance in case you lose your mental capacity and are unable to deal with your own affairs. Although this is not a matter we wish to consider unfortunately it is a possibility each of us faces. The document, once registered with the Office of the Public Guardian allows your named attorneys to look after your property and finances as well as you own welfare if you need them to or if youlose your mental capacity. You can only give your Lasting Power of Attorney when you are mentally capable so please make sure you consider it now.

As a qualified Trust and Estate Practitioner (TEP), Howard Harris a partner at Charterhouse is able to provide a comprehensive bespoke will writing service taking into account Estate and Inheritance Tax planning. In addition Howard advises on and prepares Lasting Powers of Attorney.