Author name: Tom Stansfield

Modern Law Awards We are thrilled to share that on 2 July 2025, at a glittering ceremony held at The Rum Warehouse in Liverpool, Sara Sheppard TEP of SLS Wills and More was recognised as a Highly Commended finalist in the prestigious Managing Partner of the Year category at the Modern Law Private Client Awards. A night to celebrate excellence This year’s awards brought the finest private client professionals under one roof. Sara faced formidable competitors, leaders in their field whose dedication and innovation have set the bar high. To be singled out as Highly Commended is testament to the dedication she brings to her role, especially considering the high calibre of nominees . Why this honour matters to us: Looking ahead Sara’s commendation is more than a badge of honour, and it’s not the fiest time her success has been recognised. The experience of being shortlisted, celebrated, and judged within such an esteemed forum is flattering but we’re focussed on the ‘day job’ – helping our clients with estate planning. Thank you To the Modern Law Private Client Awards for staging such an important event, and to The Rum Warehouse for hosting such a memorable evening. And of course, a heartfelt thanks to all clients and supporters whose trust in SLS Wills and More made this possible.

When the government makes tax changes, it’s rarely good news. In recent years, pensions have often been seen as a relatively safe and tax-efficient way to pass on wealth. However, from April 2027, that landscape is set to change. The Government has confirmed that pensions will be included in the taxable estate for Inheritance Tax (IHT) purposes when someone dies after the age of 75. This means more families could face unexpected tax bills, and those who thought they had their affairs in order may need to review their plans. What’s changing? Currently, if someone dies after the age of 75, the money left in their pension can still be passed on to beneficiaries. While the recipient may need to pay Income Tax when withdrawing funds, the value of the pension is not included in the deceased’s estate for IHT purposes. From April 2027, that will no longer be the case. Instead, the value of any untouched pension pots will count towards the total estate value and may be taxed at 40% if the total estate exceeds the IHT threshold. What does this mean for your Will? Although pensions are not passed on through your Will, they are a key part of your estate planning. If your pension pot is large or you have other assets that bring your estate close to the IHT threshold, you could end up unintentionally increasing the tax burden on your family. This makes it more important than ever to think about your overall legacy – not just what’s written in your Will. Practical steps to take Here are a few things to consider: 1. Review your pension nomination formsMake sure your pension provider has up-to-date details of who you would like to receive your pension. This is separate to your Will but just as vital. 2. Talk to a professional about trustsIn some cases, setting up a trust or making a lifetime gift may be more tax-efficient than relying solely on pension nominations. 3. Revisit your WillEven if your Will was written recently, this change could affect how much your loved ones receive. It’s worth booking a review to ensure everything still aligns with your wishes. 4. Think about charitable givingLeaving 10% or more of your estate to charity could reduce your overall IHT rate from 40% to 36%. If you were already considering a gift to charity, this might make it even more worthwhile. Don’t leave it too late At SLS Wills and More, we believe that estate planning should give you peace of mind, not hidden surprises. These upcoming changes mean now is a great time to review your affairs and make sure your wishes will be carried out in the most tax-efficient way. If you’d like to talk through your options, I’d be happy to help. You can book a free 20-minute call at a time that suits you, or simply get in touch for more information.

The Wills Bill 2025, proposed by the Law Commission, is set to bring about the most significant reform to wills legislation in England and Wales since the Wills Act 1837. The aim is to modernise and simplify the will-making process so it better reflects contemporary society and digital advancements. For anyone thinking about creating or updating a will, this proposed legislation is worth understanding. Key Changes Proposed by the Wills Bill 2025 1. Recognition of Electronic Wills One of the most notable changes is the proposed legal acceptance of electronic wills. This would allow individuals to draft, sign, and store their wills digitally, offering a more flexible and accessible approach. However, strict requirements will still apply to ensure these wills are authentic and secure. 2. Marriage No Longer Revokes a Will Currently, getting married or entering a civil partnership automatically revokes any existing Will unless it was clearly made in contemplation of that marriage. The new Bill seeks to remove this rule to avoid situations where people unintentionally die without a valid Will, which can lead to unintended consequences for their estate. However, when contemplating marriage, Wills should still be reviewed to ensure that reasonable financial provision is being made to avoid future challenge. Legal advice should be sought and we’re happy to support. 3. Lowering the Minimum Age to Make a Will The Bill proposes reducing the legal age to make a valid will from 18 to 16. This change recognises the ability of younger people to make important legal decisions and aligns with other areas of law where 16-year-olds can act independently. 4. Allowing Courts to Approve Informal Wills Under the current law, a will that does not meet specific formal requirements is not legally valid, even if the testator’s wishes are clear. The proposed reforms would give courts the authority to validate informal wills when there is convincing evidence of the individual’s intentions. 5. Updating the Test for Testamentary Capacity The Bill recommends aligning the test for testamentary capacity with the Mental Capacity Act 2005. This would replace the historic Banks v Goodfellow test and provide a more modern and consistent way of assessing whether someone has the capacity to make a will. 6. Improving Protection Against Undue Influence At present, it is very difficult to challenge a will on the grounds of undue influence. The new proposals would allow courts to infer undue influence where there is reasonable evidence, making it easier to protect vulnerable people from coercion or manipulation. What This Means for You If You Are Making a Will for the First Time These changes are designed to make the process more accessible, particularly for younger individuals and those who may prefer digital options. The added flexibility, alongside court safeguards, aims to ensure that genuine testamentary wishes are respected, even if formalities are not perfectly followed. If You Already Have a Will in Place Your existing will remains valid under the current laws, and there is no need to rewrite it because of these proposals. However, it is always wise to review your will regularly, especially after major life events such as marriage, divorce, or the birth of children. A good rule of thumb is to review your will every three to five years to ensure it still reflects your wishes. A Step Towards Modern, Accessible Will-Making The Wills Bill 2025 reflects a long-overdue update to legislation that dates back nearly two centuries. By embracing digital documentation, recognising modern family structures, and offering clearer legal standards, the proposed reforms are a step towards a more accessible and inclusive will-making process. At SLS Wills and More, we are closely monitoring the progress of this Bill and will continue to advise our clients in line with current law. If you have any questions about making or updating a will, we are here to help. For trusted advice and support, contact us today

Disney’s 2025 live-action remake of Lilo & Stitch has captured hearts worldwide, becoming one of the year’s top-grossing films. Beyond its charming visuals and heartfelt story, the film offers valuable lessons about family, responsibility, and planning for the future, core principles that resonate deeply with the essence of estate planning. 1. The Importance of Family Bonds In Lilo & Stitch, the concept of ‘Ohana’, meaning family in Hawaiian, emphasises that family means no one gets left behind or forgotten. This central theme underscores the significance of safeguarding our loved ones’ futures. Estate planning serves as a tangible expression of this commitment, ensuring that your family’s needs and wishes are honoured, even when you’re no longer present. 2. Navigating Unexpected Challenges The film portrays Lilo and her sister Nani facing unforeseen challenges, from the arrival of Stitch to the threat of being separated by social services. Similarly, life can present unexpected events, illness, accidents, or sudden changes in circumstances. Having a comprehensive estate plan, including wills and powers of attorney, provides a safety net, allowing your family to navigate such challenges with clarity and confidence. 3. Embracing Non-Traditional Family Structures Lilo and Nani’s family setup deviates from the traditional mold, yet their bond is unbreakable. Modern families come in various forms, and estate planning must reflect this diversity. Whether it’s recognising guardianship roles, step-relations, or close friends considered family, a well-crafted estate plan ensures that your unique family dynamics are respected and upheld. 4. Protecting What Matters Most Stitch, initially seen as a disruptive force, becomes an integral part of Lilo’s life. This transformation highlights the importance of protecting what matters most, even if it doesn’t fit conventional expectations. Similarly, estate planning isn’t just about assets; it’s about preserving relationships, memories, and the values you hold dear. 5. Planning for the Future The characters in Lilo & Stitch learn to look beyond immediate concerns and plan for a harmonious future together. Estate planning embodies this foresight, allowing you to make decisions today that will benefit your loved ones tomorrow. By outlining your wishes clearly, you provide guidance and peace of mind to those you care about. Ready to Secure Your Family’s Future? At SLS Wills and More, we understand that every family is unique. Our expert team is dedicated to helping you create an estate plan that reflects your individual circumstances and values. Whether you’re starting from scratch or updating an existing plan, we’re here to guide you every step of the way. Contact us today to begin your estate planning journey: hello@slswillsandmore.co.uk01304 577998Office 4, Garrity House, Miners Way, Aylesham, Canterbury CT3 3BFwww.slswillsandmore.co.uk