The case for a bespoke will

Having a valid and effective will in place is one of the most important things you can do to protect your loved ones in the event of your death.  

By Kate Kendall, chartered legal executive, Alexander Grace Law

These days families can be complicated. Drafting a bespoke will which suits your individual needs is a specialist task best left to an expert.

Homemade or inexpertly drafted wills can have unforeseen and sometimes disastrous consequences.

When preparing for the future it is also advisable to put in place a lasting power of attorney in relation to your finances and/or health and welfare so that in the event of you being suddenly incapacitated the people you trust have the authority to make decisions on your behalf.  

Without a lasting power of attorney in place your family may face a complex application to the Court of Protection to enable them to handle your affairs. At an already difficult time this added stress would be better avoided.

Another difficult time for any family is in the aftermath of a bereavement. At such a time handling the administration of a family member’s estate can be a stressful responsibility.  

You may not wish to instruct the solicitors who are holding the will and you usually do not have to do so.

I have more than 20 years of experience in the legal profession and specialise in wills, lasting powers of attorney/Court of Protection and probate/estate administration. I can offer sensitive and professional help with all these issues.