Circumstances which, on the face of it, seem to be simple and straightforward, can have far reaching consequences. As lawyers we are trained to ask the right questions so that a Will is tailor made for our clients rather than a generic one-size-fits-all Will.
A graphic example of this happened when a couple recently told me they wanted everything to pass to each other after one of them had died. After taking some further information it became clear that one of the properties was jointly owned with someone else. So I explained what the potential problem was and what options existed to deal with the issue and ensure that the clients’ wishes could be fulfilled.
Another example is when a client told me that she wanted everything to pass to her child after her death. Further questions revealed that the child had a disability so leaving everything to that child could cause problems such as a loss of State Benefits and the potential for the child to be preyed upon by unscrupulous people seeking to gain from the inheritance. I offered options which enabled the child to benefit from the inheritance whilst at the same time protecting them and the funds.
So if you are considering making a new Will or updating an existing one come and talk to a member of our Private Client team on 01825 762281 or e-mail churchstreet@dawson-hart.co.uk
We are here for you, when you need us.