Will Writing and Estate Planning you can trust

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SLS Wills and More!

SLS Wills and More was set up by Sara Sheppard in 2017 after over 35 years in private practice in a number of specialist solicitors across East Kent. Sara and SLS Wills and More are part a fellow  of the Society of Will Writers. Since becoming a fellow of the SWW, Sara now sits on their Professional Standards Board and is now a fellow member of the SWW.

There are so many good reasons to use SLS Wills and More

Supporting good causes!

We give 5% of profits to good causes. We’ve donated to Hypo Hounds via Work for Good and  Community Driving School CIC (CDS) directly. If any legacies are included within the Wills for either organisation a further 5% of the invoice value will be donated to that good cause

Wills

We work hard during our lifetime to build our estate. It’s important to protect it. We can support with all types of Wills from simple to complex and also with commercial or business succession planning.

Probate and Estate Administration

Dealing with the affairs of someone’s estate after they have passed can be made easier with a Will but presents challenges. We can provide guidance and support to help.

Secure Document Storage

Once you’ve spent money on estate planning, it’s vital you keep these documents safe. If the documents are lost, there is little if anything that can be done to protect your wishes.

Trusts

Trusts are like a safety deposit box used to protect assets. Here at SLS Wills and More we help you utilise all sorts of Trusts and provide guidance as to the tax position behind each.

Lasting Powers of Attorney

Enabling people we trust to make decisions for us in the event that we cannot or don’t want to make them for ourselves.

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Latest Blog/News

Future of estate planning

Changing the Narrative in the Estate Planning Sector: Prioritising Expertise Over Price

Estate Planning in Recent Years In recent years, the estate planning sector has seen an increasing focus on online Wills, fuelled by digital advancements and shifting consumer behaviours. While the convenience and affordability of online Will writing services attract many, the narrative around estate planning has become worryingly focused on price rather than expertise. However, estate planning should not be reduced to a race to the bottom in terms of cost—it is, after all, about safeguarding your legacy and ensuring your loved ones are provided for in the way you intend. The Rise of Online Wills Recent research from Legacy Foresight has highlighted the growing prominence of online Wills, particularly among younger generations. The data shows that 83% of 35-44-year-olds and 71% of 45-54-year-olds don’t have a Will, with younger people being more likely to turn to online platforms when they decide to take this important step. As digital technology continues to permeate all aspects of our lives, it’s not surprising that many individuals turn to online services for the perceived simplicity and lower upfront costs. Yet, while online Will writing offers convenience, it may also create an environment where consumers make decisions based solely on price, rather than the quality of advice or expertise behind the service. The result? Wills that may not fully reflect the complexities of an individual’s estate, leading to unintended consequences for their families and loved ones. Expertise Matters in Estate Planning Estate planning is a deeply personal and often complex process. It’s not just about writing a document—it’s about making sure your assets are distributed according to your wishes, accounting for family dynamics, tax implications, and future needs. This level of consideration requires a deep understanding of legal and financial principles, which is why working with an expert is so important. A Will drafted without professional advice could potentially lead to costly mistakes, such as unclear instructions, mismanagement of assets, or even the risk of the Will being invalid. Furthermore, complexities such as blended families, businesses, and inheritance tax planning require more than a templated, one-size-fits-all approach. Expertise ensures that these intricacies are properly addressed, reducing the likelihood of disputes or legal challenges after your death. The Dangers of a “Price-First” Approach While it is understandable that people want to save money, choosing a Will writing service based solely on cost can have significant long-term implications. An improperly drafted Will or a failure to account for all legal obligations can result in substantial legal fees, tax burdens, and family disputes—outcomes that could far exceed the cost of using an experienced estate planning professional from the outset. Estate planning should be seen as an investment in your family’s future, not as an area where corners can be cut. A professionally drafted Will offers peace of mind, ensuring that your estate is handled with the care and expertise it requires. At SLS Wills and More, we believe that every client deserves a personalised approach, and our experience allows us to navigate even the most complicated estates with care and precision. Changing the Conversation It is time to shift the conversation in the estate planning sector away from price and back to the importance of quality and expertise. Consumers deserve to be informed of the risks involved in choosing a low-cost, cookie-cutter solution for something as important as their legacy. Estate planning professionals must continue to champion the value of personalised advice and comprehensive planning, ensuring that clients understand the potential pitfalls of cutting corners. At SLS Wills and More, we prioritise expertise above all else. Our founder, Sara Sheppard, has over 35 years of experience in the sector, is a Fellow of the Society of Will Writers, and holds TEP status—an internationally recognised qualification in trusts and estates. We are committed to providing our clients with the highest level of service, ensuring that their Wills are tailored to their unique circumstances, and that their legacies are protected. The Future of Wills: Striking the Right Balance As digital solutions continue to evolve, online Will writing services will undoubtedly play a role in the future of estate planning. However, it is crucial that these services do not become synonymous with cheap, one-size-fits-all solutions. Rather, there should be a balance—offering convenience and affordability without compromising on the level of expertise provided. As more individuals, especially younger generations, enter the estate planning market, we must ensure that they understand the importance of professional guidance. Estate planning is not just about the immediate, but about planning for future generations and ensuring that their financial affairs are in order. At SLS Wills and More, we are dedicated to helping clients navigate the complexities of estate planning with expert advice and personalised service. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help protect your family’s future and ensure your wishes are honoured.

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Image of a cat and a dog under a blanket. Article for SLS Wills and more about pets and estate planning

Estate Planning for Pet Owners: Ensuring Your Pets Are Cared for After You’re Gone

What happens to your pets when you’re not here? For many of us, our pets are part of the family, offering companionship and unconditional love. However, when it comes to estate planning in England and Wales, it’s essential to make provisions for your furry friends, as pets cannot directly inherit money or property. Without a valid Will in place, the future care of your pets can become uncertain, leaving them vulnerable. What Happens Without a Will? If you pass away without a Will (known as dying intestate), your assets will be distributed according to the rules of intestacy in England and Wales. These rules make no provision for pets, meaning there’s no guarantee that your beloved animals will be cared for in the way you’d want. They could be left in the care of family members who may not be able or willing to take them in, or they might even end up in an animal shelter. Pets Can’t Inherit Money Directly Unlike in other countries, such as the United States, where some lucky pets have been left significant sums—such as the case of Leona Helmsley’s dog, Trouble, who inherited $12 million—pets in England and Wales cannot inherit directly under the law. This means you’ll need to make specific arrangements for their care in your Will. Options for Looking After Your Pets There are several ways to ensure your pets are taken care of after you’re gone: Ensure Your Pets Are Protected Estate planning isn’t just for distributing money and property—it’s about ensuring that the people and animals you care about are looked after. By including your pets in your Will, you can have peace of mind that they will be cared for according to your wishes. At SLS Wills and More, we can guide you through the process of creating a Will that reflects all your wishes, including the long-term care of your beloved pets. For more information or to discuss your estate planning needs, contact us today. Your pets are a part of your family—make sure they are cared for, no matter what happens.

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