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Author name: Tom Stansfield

Testamentary Freedom
Articles

Growing concerns regarding final wishes in Wills…

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A recent article by Ben Wilkinson in The Telegraph highlights a growing concern among individuals regarding the security of their final wishes as expressed in their Wills. The piece discusses the case of Roger Howe, who deliberately excluded his daughter from his £1.4 million estate, only for the courts to later award her a significant portion of it. This situation underscores the complexities surrounding testamentary freedom and the potential for legal challenges under current UK inheritance laws. Understanding Testamentary Freedom and the Inheritance (Provision for Family and Dependants) Act 1975 In England and Wales, individuals have the right to distribute their estate as they see fit, a principle known as testamentary freedom. However, this freedom is not absolute. The Inheritance (Provision for Family and Dependants) Act 1975 allows certain individuals, including spouses, children, and dependants, to contest a Will if they believe it does not make “reasonable financial provision” for them. This legislation aims to balance an individual’s testamentary wishes with the needs of those who were financially dependent on them. The Implications of Recent Legal Challenges The case of Roger Howe is not isolated. There has been a notable increase in inheritance disputes reaching the courts, often resulting in significant legal fees and the redistribution of estates contrary to the deceased’s explicit wishes. Factors contributing to this trend include rising property values, complex family dynamics, and greater awareness of legal rights among potential claimants. Strategies to Safeguard Your Estate To minimise the risk of your will being contested, consider the following steps: While the law provides mechanisms to protect dependants from being unfairly disinherited, it’s essential to take proactive steps to ensure your estate is distributed according to your wishes. By engaging in thoughtful estate planning and seeking professional guidance, you can uphold the integrity of your final wishes and provide clarity for your loved ones. At SLS Wills and More, we are committed to helping you navigate these complexities with expertise and compassion. Our team is dedicated to ensuring that your estate planning reflects your intentions and provides for your loved ones appropriately. It’s worth noting that our founder – Sara Sheppard has over 37 years experience in this field, is TEP qualified and is a Fellow of the Society of Will Writers.

Probate and funerals
Uncategorized

Helping You Through Difficult Times

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Losing a loved one is never easy. Grief can be overwhelming, and the added pressure of dealing with legal and financial matters often feels like too much to handle. At SLS Wills and More, we understand how difficult this time can be, which is why we offer compassionate, expert support to help guide you through the process. Many of our clients come to us feeling lost, unsure of where to start. As Margaret Price kindly shared in her review: “I didn’t know where to start when my husband passed away – everything seemed to be in a mess, or unfinished! But a friend recommended Sara of SLS Wills, who was an absolute blessing. Nothing was too much trouble for Sara, and with her broad knowledge and experience made light work of my issues. She explained each step and kept me informed of progress all the way. I cannot speak too highly of Sara’s business, and it was all conducted in the comfort and privacy of my own home at a very reasonable fee.” If you have recently lost someone and are feeling overwhelmed by the legal side of things, we are here to help. What is Probate? Probate is the legal process of proving a Will and giving the executor the authority to deal with a person’s estate. If someone has left a valid Will, their appointed executors will need to apply for a Grant of Probate to access assets such as bank accounts, property, and investments. However, probate is just one part of the process. Many people use the term to refer to everything involved in handling a loved one’s estate, but in reality, estate administration is the wider process of dealing with all assets, debts, taxes, and distributions to beneficiaries. Probate is simply one legal step within this. When is Probate Needed? Not every estate requires probate. Whether you need it depends on factors such as: Each situation is different, and we can help you determine whether probate is necessary for your loved one’s estate. What Happens When Someone Dies Without a Will? When a person dies without a Will, they are said to have died intestate. This means their estate is distributed according to strict legal rules, which may not reflect what they would have wanted. Under intestacy rules: Dealing with an intestate estate can be more complicated, and probate (known as Letters of Administration in these cases) will almost always be required. If you are facing this situation, we can help guide you through it and ensure everything is handled properly. Support When You Need it Most Many people are perfectly capable of handling probate or estate administration in normal circumstances. However, when grieving, even the simplest of tasks can feel overwhelming. We regularly help clients who might otherwise manage it themselves but find that, in the midst of loss, they need support. At SLS Wills and More, we take as much of the burden off your shoulders as possible, handling the legal side of things so you can focus on yourself and your family. Whether you need full estate administration or just help with certain steps, we can tailor our support to your needs. Here to Help Across England and Wales We are based in Kent but assist clients across England and Wales. We offer face-to-face meetings where possible, but if you prefer, we can guide you through everything via Zoom, making our services accessible no matter where you are. If you have lost a loved one and need support with probate or estate administration, please get in touch. We are here to help you navigate this difficult time with expert guidance and a compassionate approach. Call us: 01304 577998Email us: hello@slswillsandmore.co.ukVisit our website: www.slswillsandmore.co.uk You don’t have to go through this alone – let us help lighten the load.

Will Writing in England and Wales
Articles

Will Writing in England and Wales

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Will Writing in England and Wales: What You Need to Know When it comes to writing a Will, many people assume the rules are the same everywhere. However, inheritance laws vary significantly between countries, and even within the UK, different jurisdictions have their own legal frameworks. At SLS Wills and More, we specialise in Will Writing and estate planning under the laws of England and Wales. While we’re based in Kent, we serve clients across the whole jurisdiction, offering both face-to-face and Zoom appointments to make the process as convenient as possible. But what makes England and Wales unique in terms of Wills? And how do other countries approach inheritance differently? Let’s take a closer look. The Legal Framework in England and Wales In England and Wales, Wills are governed by the Wills Act 1837. This legislation sets out the requirements for a valid Will: ✅ The person making the Will (the testator) must be over 18 and of sound mind.✅ The Will must be in writing.✅ The testator must sign the Will in the presence of two independent witnesses.✅ The witnesses must also sign the Will in the presence of the testator. These formalities ensure that Wills are valid and legally enforceable. However, this approach differs significantly from other countries, where alternative forms of Wills, such as handwritten notes, electronic documents, or even text messages, have been accepted by courts. This might change this year but we’re yet to know. How Inheritance Laws Differ Around the World Forced Heirship – The Law in Many European Countries Unlike England and Wales, many countries have a system of forced heirship. This means that certain family members, usually children and spouses, are automatically entitled to a share of an estate, regardless of what the deceased may have wanted. For example: By contrast, in England and Wales, people have testamentary freedom – meaning you can leave your estate to whoever you choose. However, the Inheritance (Provision for Family and Dependants) Act 1975 allows certain people, such as spouses, children, and dependants, to make a claim if they believe they’ve been unfairly left out. So, if you’re looking to make an exclusion in England or Wales, it’s important to cover your back and get professional advice. Modern Approaches – Australia and the “Text Message Will” Some countries have moved towards a more flexible approach to Wills. One of the most striking examples comes from Australia, where courts have been willing to accept unconventional Wills. In 2017, a judge in Queensland ruled that an unsent text message found on a deceased man’s phone could be considered his Will. The message, which left his estate to his brother and nephew, was never sent, but the court decided it reflected his final wishes. While England and Wales still require strict formalities, this case raises an interesting question: should inheritance laws evolve to reflect modern technology? A Recent Example – The Wanted and the “Notes App Will” Closer to home, the importance of formalising a Will was highlighted by a band. The case of Tom Parker, a member of the band The Wanted. Following his tragic passing in 2022, it emerged that he died without writing a Will. His band-mate, Max George, recently went into the hospital to have a pacemaker fitted and reportedly had written a Will using the notes app on his phone. Unfortunately, under the law of England and Wales, a Will written in a phone’s notes app is not legally valid, as it doesn’t meet the requirements of the Wills Act 1837. This meant that his estate was at risk of being distributed under intestacy rules rather than according to his wishes had the op gone south. This case serves as a stark reminder that good intentions aren’t enough, a Will must be properly executed to be legally recognised. What’s Important When Writing a Will in England and Wales? If you want to ensure your wishes are followed, the following points are crucial: 1. Get Your Will Drafted Properly A DIY Will, an unsigned draft, or a note on your phone simply won’t be legally valid. Working with a professional Will Writer ensures everything is done correctly. 2. Consider Who Might Make a Claim Even though you have testamentary freedom, certain individuals (such as spouses, children, and financial dependants) may be able to challenge your Will if they believe they have not been adequately provided for. Thoughtful planning can help reduce the risk of disputes. 3. Keep Your Will Updated Life changes, marriage, divorce, children, property purchases, so your Will should change too. Reviewing it regularly ensures it still reflects your wishes. 4. Make Sure It’s Properly Stored A Will must be stored safely and be accessible when needed. At SLS Wills and More, we offer secure Will storage services, so you don’t have to worry about losing your original document. We Serve Clients Across England and Wales Although we’re based in Kent, our services are available to clients across England and Wales. Whether you prefer a face-to-face appointment or a Zoom consultation, we make the Will Writing process straightforward, professional, and tailored to your needs. Don’t risk leaving your estate to chance. Ensure your wishes are legally protected with a professionally drafted Will. Call us: 01304 577998Email us: hello@slswillsandmore.co.ukVisit our website: www.slswillsandmore.co.uk Secure your future. Protect your loved ones. Write your Will today.

Sport and Will Writing
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Sport and Will Writing

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Sport and Will Writing: An Unlikely but Valuable Comparison At first glance, sport and Will Writing might seem worlds apart. After all, one involves physical prowess and competition, while the other is about careful planning and legal expertise. However, when you dig a little deeper, the two share some surprising parallels. Both require teamwork, strategy, and a focus on achieving the best outcome, whether for a match (or game), or your family’s future. While the team at SLS Wills and More may not be massive sports fans, we can appreciate the lessons sport offers when it comes to decision-making and preparation. (That said, Sara does have a soft spot for sailing, there’s something inspiring about navigating the open water, using skill and foresight to reach your destination.) Let’s explore the similarities between sport and Will Writing, and how lessons from the pitch, court, or sea can help you approach your estate planning with confidence. Strategy is Key In sport, a solid strategy often separates the winners from the losers. Athletes and coaches analyse the opposition, plan their moves, and adapt when circumstances change. The same applies to Will Writing. Creating a Will is about planning ahead, considering what might happen and making thoughtful decisions about how your estate should be handled. Just as a sports team plans for various scenarios, you’ll want to account for life’s uncertainties, such as changes in family dynamics or tax regulations. At SLS Wills and More, we’re here to help you develop a clear strategy that reflects your wishes and safeguards your loved ones. Women Lead the Way It’s no secret that in many households, women take the lead in important decision-making, and Will Writing is no exception. According to our findings, the majority of financial and estate planning decisions are driven by women. Whether it’s arranging LPAs (Lasting Powers of Attorney) or making provisions for children and grandchildren, women are often at the forefront of ensuring everything is in place. This mirrors trends in sport, where women’s participation and leadership are steadily rising. From team captains to trailblazing athletes, women are shaping the future, just as they do when it comes to estate planning. If you’re a woman leading the charge in your family’s planning, we applaud you. Let SLS Wills and More be your trusted partner in creating a Will that secures your legacy. The Team Behind the Scenes In both sport and Will Writing, teamwork is essential. A successful athlete might be the star on the field, but they rely on coaches, trainers, and analysts to guide them. Similarly, when drafting your Will, it’s vital to have a knowledgeable team behind you to ensure everything is done correctly and in line with the law. At SLS Wills and More, we act as your coach and support team, guiding you through the complexities of estate planning and ensuring that no detail is overlooked. Just like a top-tier sports team, we’re focused on achieving the best result for you and your family. Preparation Wins the Day Athletes train relentlessly because they know preparation is the foundation of success. The same applies to Will Writing. Putting off your Will might feel like an easy option, but it leaves you unprepared, and your loved ones vulnerable. By taking the time to write a Will, you’re doing the equivalent of training for a major event. You’re ensuring that when the time comes, everything is in place and your wishes are clear. The peace of mind this brings is invaluable, not only for you but also for those you care about. Don’t Leave It to Chance In sport, as in life, leaving things to chance rarely pays off. Whether you’re tackling a tricky course or navigating the complexities of inheritance tax, careful planning ensures you’re ready for whatever comes your way. At SLS Wills and More, we’re not sporting champions, but we are experts in Will Writing, LPAs, and estate planning. Just like a good coach helps an athlete achieve their potential, we help you secure your family’s future. Ready to Take the First Step? Sport teaches us the value of teamwork, preparation, and strategy, all vital when it comes to estate planning. Whether you’re motivated by a desire to protect your loved ones, ensure your assets are distributed fairly, or even leave a charitable legacy, SLS Wills and More is here to help. Contact us today to start planning your future with confidence. Together, we’ll create a winning strategy for your Will and your peace of mind. Phone: 01304 577998Email: hello@slswillsandmore.co.ukWebsite: www.slswillsandmore.co.uk Your family deserves the best, let’s make it happen.

Mary Poppins
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Estate Planning Lessons from Mary Poppins: Bringing Order and Harmony to Your Family’s Future

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The family classic, Mary Poppins, is so good that it’s been remade in 2018 with Emily Blunt. The original is often remembered for its cheerful songs, whimsical adventures, and a magical nanny who literally floats in on the east wind. Beneath the charm and spoonfuls of sugar, however, lies a poignant commentary on family dynamics, values, and responsibilities. If we step inside No. 17 Cherry Tree Lane through the lens of estate planning, we find that the Banks family’s journey provides timeless lessons in securing one’s legacy and ensuring long-term family harmony. The Banks Family and Financial Strain At the heart of Mary Poppins are Mr and Mrs Banks and their two children, Jane and Michael. Mr Banks, a diligent banker, takes pride in his role as the family’s financial provider in an outdated family structure. Yet, for all his careful attention to the figures at the bank, he neglects the long-term planning and deeper emotional wellbeing of his household. In many ways, this parallels what can happen if we focus solely on short-term savings rather than broader estate planning strategies. Without a considered plan—be it a Will, trust, or lasting power of attorney—our families may end up facing uncertainty. Should the worst occur, your loved ones might be left juggling assets, bank accounts, and property without clear instructions, just as Mr Banks initially struggles to find the right balance between work and home. A Spoonful of Structure: Wills and Trusts Mary Poppins arrives to restore harmony, not just through magical outings and cheerful songs, but by subtly guiding Mr Banks to reassess his priorities. In estate planning terms, this is akin to drafting a comprehensive Will or setting up a trust. These documents serve as the framework that holds a family’s financial future together, ensuring that, should something happen, everyone knows what to do and where they stand. A Will allows you to specify exactly how your assets should be distributed, preventing family disputes and confusion. A trust can provide even greater flexibility, protecting the interests of your children until they are old enough to manage their inheritance responsibly—rather like Mary Poppins keeping a watchful eye until Jane and Michael are ready to embrace their father’s lessons in kindness and generosity. Appointing Suitable Guardians: Ensuring Children’s Welfare One of the key themes of Mary Poppins is the wellbeing of the children. Without Mary’s guiding hand, Jane and Michael’s emotional needs might have gone unmet, their joyful spirits dulled by a lack of attention. In England and Wales, parents can ensure their children’s futures by appointing legal guardians in their Wills. This pre-emptive step guarantees that someone trustworthy will look after them if you are no longer able to do so. It’s not just about financial security—it’s about emotional stability as well. Much like the warmth Mary Poppins brings to the Banks household, named guardians can provide the love, care, and consistent moral compass children need during difficult times. Lasting Powers of Attorney: Preparing for the Unexpected In Mary Poppins, unexpected changes abound—the nanny’s sudden arrival, a trip into a chalk painting, and a penguin waitstaff in a pavement café! Real life can also present unpredictable turns. If injury or illness renders you unable to make your own financial or healthcare decisions, a lasting power of attorney (LPA) ensures trusted individuals can act on your behalf. This pre-emptive step prevents unnecessary stress and upheaval, keeping your family’s ship steady and secure, rather like Admiral Boom’s precise timekeeping and Mary’s measured approach to challenges. Rediscovering What Matters Most By the end of the film, Mr Banks realises that family connection, compassion, and open-heartedness outrank his previous fixation on mere financial formality. In estate planning terms, this is a reminder that planning is about more than wealth—it’s about protecting the people you love and ensuring that they thrive emotionally and financially. Your estate plan becomes a lasting legacy of care, echoing Mary Poppins’ message: when families have a solid foundation, it frees them up to celebrate life’s joys together. Without the burden of uncertainty, they can focus on what truly matters—shared laughter, meaningful traditions, and passing on values that endure long after the last kite is flown. How SLS Wills and More Can Help At SLS Wills and More, we’re ready to help you channel your inner Mary Poppins—putting practical measures in place so that your family’s future is secure, stable, and full of possibility. From drafting a comprehensive Will to setting up trusts and LPAs, we can guide you through all aspects of estate planning. With our assistance, you can give your loved ones the greatest gift of all: the reassurance that, whatever tomorrow may bring, your family’s financial home at No. 17 Cherry Tree Lane (or wherever you reside) remains a place of comfort, harmony, and hope.

Pete's Dragon
Articles, Uncategorized

Who remember’s Pete’s Dragon…

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There is an irony when we say that not a lot of people saw it… The Dragon, not the film… That’s because the Dragon was invisible. Disney’s Pete’s Dragon may be best remembered for its heart-warming friendship between a young boy and a gentle, invisible dragon, but lurking behind the cheerful songs and enchanting special effects is a cautionary tale about the fate of children left without proper legal guardianship. If we imagine Pete’s situation playing out under the laws of England and Wales, it becomes clear just how vital it is to secure your children’s future through meticulous estate planning. Pete’s Predicament: Life Without a Safety Net In Pete’s Dragon, the orphaned Pete finds himself in dire straits. Originally taken in by the unscrupulous Gogan family, Pete flees their abuse to roam free with his friend, Elliot the dragon—an unseen protector. Without parents or a proper guardian, Pete’s wellbeing is left to chance. In the real world, however, society and the law have mechanisms designed to prevent vulnerable children from facing this uncertainty. If Pete’s parents had passed away in England and Wales without leaving a valid Will that named guardians, the courts would step in to determine who should care for him. While the courts endeavour to choose a guardian who can provide a stable, loving home, this process can be lengthy, stressful, and not always in line with what the parents would have wanted. Much like Pete’s dangerous brush with the Gogans, the wrong caretaker might emerge if there’s no clear legal guidance—highlighting the importance of appointing trusted guardians in your Will. The Role of Guardianship Clauses Had Pete’s parents named suitable guardians in a legally valid Will, the transition to a new home would have been far simpler. Instead of roaming from place to place, hoping for the kindness of strangers (or the protective presence of a magical dragon), Pete could have enjoyed the security of a home chosen by his parents. Such a guardian would look out for his best interests, ensuring a positive upbringing, proper education, and moral guidance—a stark contrast to the haphazard protection offered by Elliot’s invisibility trick. Controlling the Purse Strings: Trusts and Financial Security As an orphan, Pete not only needs loving guardians, he also needs financial security. If his parents had assets—whether modest savings or a family home—a well-crafted Will could have included a trust. A trust ensures that funds are safeguarded and managed responsibly on a child’s behalf until they reach a specified age. This might have prevented Pete from being taken advantage of by those more interested in his financial potential than his welfare. Whereas Elliot’s magical presence provides protection from harm, trusts offer a more practical, legal shield, safeguarding against misuse of funds and ensuring that they’re used exclusively for the child’s maintenance, education, and future prospects. Preventing Predatory Figures from Gaining Control In the film, Dr. Terminus, a charlatan ‘snake oil salesman’, attempts to exploit Elliot’s rarity and abilities for profit. In a real-world scenario, an unprotected child’s inheritance or estate might attract similarly unscrupulous individuals. Proper estate planning, with a trust overseen by reliable trustees, prevents ill-intentioned parties from capitalising on a vulnerable child’s inheritance. After all, trustees have legal responsibilities to protect and manage trust assets for the benefit of the trust’s beneficiaries. By having your wishes clearly stated, you give trustees the power to say “no” to predators and opportunists, and “yes” to anything that genuinely benefits the child’s welfare. Learning from Pete’s Story: Dickensian Echoes Pete’s Dragon has a kinship with many classic tales of orphans navigating a challenging world—a theme reminiscent of Dickensian England. Then as now, the absence of parental guidance and legal protections left children vulnerable to exploitation. Thankfully, modern legislation in England and Wales allows parents to set out their wishes and shield their children through legally binding documents. The lesson here is simple: whilst none of us can guarantee a life free of hardship, we can eliminate unnecessary uncertainty and risk for our loved ones by putting our affairs in order and it’s quite a simple process. How SLS Wills and More Can Help At SLS Wills and More, we understand that estate planning isn’t just about distributing possessions—it’s about providing for the future wellbeing of those dearest to you. Much like Elliot offers magical protection to Pete, our team offers you peace of mind by: In an unpredictable world, you can ensure your children don’t need a mythical dragon to feel safe and secure. Contact SLS Wills and More today, and let us help you build a legal safety net as steadfast as Elliot’s invisible wings.

Christmas at SLS Wills and More
Articles, Uncategorized

A Christmas Message from SLS Wills and More

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As we approach the festive season, all of us at SLS Wills and More would like to take a moment to wish you a merry Christmas and a peaceful New Year. It’s a time for family and friends, gathering together (in person or virtually) to share in familiar traditions and create new memories. The past year has reminded us of the importance of family, security, and taking the time to plan for whatever the future may hold. While Christmas might not seem like the ideal moment to think about estate planning, there’s something reassuring in knowing that your loved ones will be well looked after, not just for the holidays, but for many years to come. At SLS Wills and More, we firmly believe that the greatest gift you can give your family is the certainty that comes with having a valid will, appropriate lasting powers of attorney, and a sound plan for the management of your estate. This forward-thinking approach is not just a legal safeguard—it’s a heartfelt gesture of love, care, and consideration for those closest to you. So, as you exchange presents, pull a cracker, and enjoy your Christmas pudding, consider if this year might be the one to give yourself and your loved ones that lasting peace of mind. If we can help, we’re only a call or email away. From our family at SLS Wills and More to yours: Merry Christmas, and our very best wishes for a bright and prosperous New Year. May 2025 bring comfort, joy, and the security of knowing that you’ve taken care of the things that truly matter. As a quick reminder, our festive hours can be found on our Contact Us page and on our home page.

Home Alone Christmas Film and Will Writing
Articles, Uncategorized

Estate Planning Lessons from Home Alone: Ensuring Your Loved Ones Aren’t Left Behind

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As the Christmas approaches, we have seen so many posts on social media about the best Christmas Movies and it gets heated! Many of us will revisit the Christmas classic, Home Alone. The film’s storyline of a young boy accidentally left behind while his family jets off on holiday is not only a comic adventure, but can also serve as an unusual lesson in the importance of estate planning. Would you believe it? We continue our series of film-based inheritance blogs… If we imagine the McCallister family’s predicament playing out in England and Wales under the lens of Wills, trusts, and guardianship, we find some surprising insights into what might happen if the adults in the family were tragically unable to return. When Parents Are Missing in Action In Home Alone, Kevin McCallister’s family inadvertently leaves him behind in their Chicago home while they rush off to France. Small side note – the house that was used for filming has gone on the market recently and it would automatically trigger an IHT liability if owned in England or Wales. Back to Kevin… Although he fends off bumbling burglars with admirable ingenuity, we can’t help but wonder: what if Kevin’s parents had met with a misfortune and never made it back? How would English and Welsh law handle the matter? In real life, if both parents were to pass away unexpectedly, the children left behind would need care not from the police or social services, but from someone legally authorised to look after them. This is where the importance of appointing legal guardians in your Will comes into play. Without a properly drafted Will that names guardians, the decision as to who cares for minor children could be left to the courts. This potentially lengthy and complex process is the last thing anyone would want for a child who’s already suffered the loss of their parents. We heard a story recently where this exact thing happened and it took 3 weeks before the family were able to look after their own flesh and blood. The Role of Executors Should the McCallisters’ unfortunate scenario become reality, the executors named in their Will would play a crucial role. These trusted individuals are responsible for: If Kevin is a minor and his parents left their estate to him and his siblings, the executors could hold the assets in trust until they reach adulthood. This would ensure that the children’s financial future remains secure, even if their parents are no longer around. This sort of trust would ordinarily be called a bare trust. Guardianship: Choosing the Right Person In Home Alone, Kevin’s challenge was surviving in a house rigged with homemade booby traps rather than navigating complex legal proceedings. But let’s imagine the opposite scenario: if Kevin’s parents had made no arrangements, he and his siblings might find themselves in the care of a relative who may not share the McCallisters’ values or parenting style. Worse still, if no suitable family member or friend stepped forward, the local authority might have to become involved. By naming a guardian in a Will, parents can ensure their children are raised by someone they trust—an aunt, uncle, or close family friend who can provide not only a safe home, but emotional stability during a turbulent time. Trusts and Inheritance The McCallisters appear to be a reasonably well-off family, so it’s safe to assume there might be a sizeable estate at stake. If the parents did not leave a valid Will, the Rules of Intestacy in England and Wales would dictate how their estate is divided. The children would eventually inherit, but the process might be more complicated and less flexible than if a well-structured Will had been in place. For wealthier or more complex estates, setting up trusts is often a good idea. Trusts can protect assets and ensure they are used for the children’s benefit, covering expenses like education, housing, and general welfare until they come of age. Without such foresight, the children might inherit large sums at 18, before they’ve learned to manage money responsibly—something Kevin might have appreciated when stocking up on aftershave and pizza. He certainly knew how to spend his parent’s money in Home Alone 2 when stuck in New York… Planning for the Unexpected No one wants to think about worst-case scenarios during the holidays, but the truth is, life can be unpredictable. Home Alone might be a slapstick comedy, but it reminds us that it’s all too easy for things to go wrong when we least expect it. By taking the following steps, you can ensure your loved ones are protected if the unthinkable happens: How SLS Wills and More Can Help At SLS Wills and More, we understand that no one wants to imagine their children home alone for the holidays without proper care and support. We can guide you through the entire estate planning process, from writing a valid will to setting up trusts and appointing the right guardians. Our professional, empathetic team will ensure you have peace of mind that your children are always provided for, no matter what happens. Ready to ensure your loved ones are never left behind? Contact us today to secure your family’s future.

Christmas at SLS Wills and More
Articles, Uncategorized

Festive Cheer and the Gift of Estate Planning: A November Surprise from SLS Wills and More

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November. That curious month where Halloween is a distant memory, Bonfire Night smoke has barely cleared, and the first Christmas decorations start appearing in shops (we’re looking at you, early-bird supermarkets!). It’s also, controversially, when we at SLS Wills and More choose to talk about estate planning. Yes, we know – ’tis the season for mince pies, not meticulous paperwork – but hear us out. Why Estate Planning Makes the Perfect Gift While estate planning might not be at the top of your Christmas list, it’s the ultimate act of love for your family. Forget socks, chocolates, or yet another novelty mug – sorting your Will means giving the people you care about peace of mind and clarity when they need it most. It’s a gift that lasts far longer than a festive jumper (even one with twinkly lights). The Serious Bit (Wrapped in Tinsel) Did you know that more than half of adults in the UK don’t have a Will? That’s a lot of people leaving the fate of their hard-earned assets to the whims of intestacy rules. Now, imagine your Christmas dinner without a plan: no one knows who’s carving the turkey, your aunt insists on putting gravy on the pudding, and chaos reigns. Not exactly a joyful celebration. That’s what dying without a Will can feel like – but on a much bigger, messier scale. Take some time now, before the festive rush, to get your affairs in order. Think of it as a gift to your future self and your family. You’ll enjoy the mulled wine and mince pies all the more knowing you’ve ticked it off your list. Festive Hours (Mark Your Calendar!) We’re keeping our doors open longer than your average advent calendar but not quite until the bells toll on Christmas Eve. Here’s when you can catch us: Don’t Wait Until Next Year We understand that the festive period can feel a little manic, but it’s also the perfect time to reflect on what truly matters. Between wrapping presents and sipping eggnog, consider adding estate planning to your list. And if you’d rather not mix tinsel with trustees, don’t worry – we’re here to help you start 2025 on the right note. Now for the Joke (We Promised, Didn’t We?)Why was the turkey not invited to play cards?Because he was always gobbling! And on that festive note, remember: your estate plan is not just about what you leave behind but how you show your loved ones you care. Whether you’re a planner or a last-minute shopper, SLS Wills and More is here to help. Wishing you a very merry November (and an even merrier December). Don’t leave it to chance – leave it to us.

Wicked SLS
Articles

Fairy Tale Estate Planning: Wicked, The Wizard of Oz, and Who Gets the Ruby Slippers?

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Welcome to the next enchanting instalment of our whimsical (yet serious!) series on estate planning through the lens of fairy tales. This time, we’re heading to the land of Oz – where tornadoes, witches, and ruby slippers create the perfect storm of estate planning conundrums. Apt with the launch of the new Wicked movie. What happens when a pair of magical shoes becomes the subject of a contested inheritance? Let’s dive in and explore the legal chaos of Oz. Who Owns the Ruby Slippers? The Wizard of Oz kicks off with a rather unconventional transfer of assets: Dorothy’s house crash-lands on the Wicked Witch of the East, inadvertently making Dorothy the new owner of the iconic ruby slippers. A fair inheritance? The Wicked Witch of the West certainly doesn’t think so. If Oz had a legal system – and we’re assuming it would follow the rules of England and Wales, because why not – the Wicked Witch of the West could have grounds for an inheritance dispute. The slippers, as part of the estate, might have been intended for her, but without a Will, we’ll never know. The Wicked Truth About Intestacy Let’s say the Wicked Witch of the East had passed away without a Will (tragically, houses falling from the sky don’t leave much time for paperwork). Under intestacy rules: But here’s where the ruby slippers become a problem. Dorothy, who isn’t related to the Wicked Witch at all, takes possession of them without any legal authority. Intestacy rules don’t cover “finders-keepers” scenarios, and this could lead to a lengthy legal battle worthy of a sequel. The Problem with Leaving No Plan The drama in Oz highlights what happens when no one takes control of an estate. The ruby slippers aren’t just an asset; they’re a symbol of power – and their ownership directly impacts the lives of others. Without a clear Will, disputes over who gets what can tear families (and fairy tale realms) apart. What Could the Wicked Witch of the East Have Done? A Modern-Day Dorothy Imagine Dorothy living in 2024 or soon to be 2025. She might think, “I don’t need a Will; I don’t own much besides a small Kansas farm and a dog.” Don’t get us started on the farm! But by the time she’s back from Oz with magical shoes and stories to tell, she’s acquired assets (and responsibilities) that need protection. Estate planning isn’t just for witches or wizards – it’s for everyone, whether you’re living in a castle, a farmhouse, or travelling by tornado. Lessons From the Yellow Brick Road From family disputes to unexpected inheritances, the world of Oz is a reminder of how important estate planning can be. Without clear instructions, even a simple estate (or a pair of shoes) can spark conflict. And while we can’t guarantee ruby slippers in your estate, we can promise peace of mind for you and your loved ones. The Final Curtain (and the Glinda-Approved Bit) Good witches, bad witches, or somewhere in between – we all need a plan for the future. Don’t leave your legacy to chance or flying houses. A well-drafted Will ensures your wishes are carried out, your loved ones are protected, and no one ends up clicking their heels in frustration. So, if you don’t have a Will yet, don’t follow the yellow brick road – follow us to SLS Wills and More! PS: Why don’t witches wear flat shoes? Because there’s no arch support in arch enemies.

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