When the time comes to organise your affairs, drafting a Will or Power of Attorney (PoA or LPA) becomes a paramount task. While the allure of do-it-yourself solutions can be tempting, the complexities and nuances of estate planning often demand professional expertise. At SLS Wills and More, we underscore the importance of engaging with a professional for these critical documents, ensuring that your wishes are executed exactly as you envision. After all, we’ve seen the horrors that come from a well-intentioned DIY undertaking.
The Pitfalls of DIY Estate Planning
The simplicity of DIY Will kits masks a plethora of potential issues. Unless you are in the most straightforward of circumstances—single, childless, and asset-free—the gaps in a self-drafted Will can be significant. From overlooking Inheritance Tax implications to missing critical asset protection opportunities, the risks are considerable. Furthermore, an improperly executed Will can face legal challenges, potentially failing to appoint guardians for minor children—a glaring omission in many template solutions.
Similarly, DIY Lasting Powers of Attorney can be fraught with errors, from incorrect personal details to ambiguous instructions, leading to rejection by the Office of the Public Guardian. Each error incurs additional costs and delays, with some mistakes rendering the document unusable.
The SLS Wills and More Difference
Our approach to estate planning is thorough and personalised. As a renowned estate planning practice, not limited by the constraints of traditional solicitor practices, SLS Wills and More brings over 30 years of expertise to your estate planning needs. Our founder, Sara, a Fellow of the Society of Will Writers and a member of their Professional Standards Board, combines industry-leading knowledge with a commitment to excellence. With additional credentials as a tutor for the College of Will Writing and a TEP member of STEP, Sara’s expertise ensures comprehensive estate planning solutions. She was also recently accepted onto the TAS Network.
Our services extend beyond drafting documents. We delve into your financial landscape to understand and mitigate Inheritance Tax implications. We discuss your family dynamics and potential future challenges—such as remarriage, divorce, or long-term care needs—to safeguard your assets against unforeseen circumstances. Our knowledge of trusts can provide robust protection for your heirs, while our meticulous attention to the legal validity of your Will and PoA guarantees their enforceability.
Why Professional Guidance is Essential
Choosing SLS Wills and More means opting for peace of mind. Our professional guidance removes the stress and uncertainty from estate planning. Clients frequently express their relief and gratitude for the insights and thoroughness we bring to the process, often highlighting aspects they had not considered. Our affiliation with the Society of Will Writers ensures adherence to the highest standards of practice, backed by comprehensive Professional Indemnity insurance for added reassurance.
Our commitment to excellence is not just recognised by our clients but also by the industry, as evidenced by the numerous awards we have received. This trust and recognition reflect our dedication to providing superior estate planning services.
When estate planning, the value of professional advice cannot be overstated. At SLS Wills and More, our expertise, commitment to continuous learning, and personalised approach ensure that your estate planning documents reflect your wishes accurately and comprehensively. By choosing our award-winning firm, you secure not just the present but also the future of your legacy.
