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Author name: Tom Stansfield

Articles

Predatory Marriage – Why Awareness and Safeguarding Matter More Than Ever

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A week on from The Society of Will Writers Conference, many delegates are still reflecting on the sessions that struck a chord. For Sara Sheppard of SLS Wills and More, one talk stood out above all others: Daphne Franks’ deeply moving account of her mother, Joan Blass, who was the victim of a predatory marriage. Joan, who was elderly and living with dementia, was secretly married to a man who took advantage of her vulnerability. The marriage automatically revoked her existing Will, leaving her estate to her new husband and denying her family the inheritance she had intended. When the story was later shared by The Guardian, it shone a national spotlight on an uncomfortable truth – that under current UK law, there is little to prevent this from happening again. What is a predatory marriage? A predatory marriage occurs when one person deliberately exploits another’s lack of mental capacity or understanding in order to marry them, often with the intention of gaining control over their estate. The marriage is legal under current law, yet it invalidates any existing Will. This means that even if the victim had a carefully prepared Will in place, it is automatically revoked upon marriage, leaving their assets to the new spouse under intestacy rules unless a new Will is made after the marriage. Why Daphne’s story matters Daphne Franks has since campaigned tirelessly for change, calling for stronger safeguards and better training for registrars to identify when someone may not have capacity to marry. Her campaign highlights the need for greater awareness across society – not just from legal professionals, but from registrars, care providers, and families. As Sara reflected following the conference, “We all as practitioners need to be aware that this happens, and if we have our suspicions then we need to report it. Unfortunately, there is no clear guidance on who to report it to. The police are often not interested, and the Office of the Public Guardian has limited powers in this area.” The importance of safeguarding Predatory marriage sits at the intersection of safeguarding and estate planning. It is, at its core, an issue of protecting vulnerable people from abuse. As professionals and as members of society, we all share a duty to be vigilant and proactive. Ensuring that Wills and Lasting Powers of Attorney (LPAs) are in place before vulnerability arises can help to protect individuals. However, these documents alone are not enough. They must be part of a wider conversation about safeguarding, capacity, and dignity in later life. What needs to change As Nick Ash, a fellow tutor at The College of Will Writing, observed after hearing Daphne speak, “The issue lies in the hands of the registrars and the way prospective spouses are dealt with immediately before the marriage. It is nothing short of a disgrace that there is no national policy on capacity checking.” Until that changes, families and professionals must continue to raise awareness, encourage open discussion, and advocate for reform. Predatory marriage is not just a legal issue – it is a human one. Every story like Joan’s reminds us why we must keep pushing for better protection, clearer procedures, and compassion for those who can no longer protect themselves. If you would like to discuss how to protect a loved one through proper estate planning and LPAs, contact SLS Wills and More for advice and support. Contact details:SLS Wills and MoreOffice 4, Garrity House, Miners Way, Aylesham, Canterbury CT3 3BFPhone: 01304 577998Email: hello@slswillsandmore.co.uk

Articles

Having Difficult Conversations: Talking About Your Wishes Before It’s Too Late

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For many families, the hardest conversations are often the most important ones. Talking about what you want to happen when you die, or if you lose capacity, can feel uncomfortable. Yet, these discussions can make all the difference for your loved ones. They provide clarity, prevent confusion, and make sure your wishes are carried out the way you intend. At SLS Wills and More, we often see the relief that comes once people finally talk things through. It’s never too early to start these conversations, but it can easily become too late. Why It’s Important to Talk About Your Wishes It’s easy to assume that your family “just knows” what you’d want, but this is rarely the case. When no one is sure what your wishes are, it can lead to disagreements, delays, or even legal disputes. Having open, honest discussions helps to: What Can Go in a Letter of Wishes A Letter of Wishes is a personal, informal document that accompanies your Will. It doesn’t have legal force, but it gives helpful guidance to your executors, trustees, and family. You can include: A Letter of Wishes should be written in clear, plain language and kept alongside your Will. It’s best to review and update it whenever your circumstances change. What Should Go in a Will Your Will is a formal, legally binding document. It’s where you state: Unlike a Letter of Wishes, your Will must follow strict legal formalities to be valid. It’s vital that it’s drafted correctly, signed, and witnessed properly. What Shouldn’t Go in a Will or Letter of Wishes Some matters are best handled separately from your Will or Letter of Wishes. These include: Don’t Forget About Lasting Powers of Attorney A Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA) lets you appoint trusted people to make decisions for you if you lose mental capacity. There are two types: Having both in place means that your wishes can be respected even while you’re still alive but unable to communicate them yourself. Planning for Your Funeral You can express your funeral preferences in your Will or Letter of Wishes, but it’s also wise to discuss them directly with your family. Some people choose to take out a prepaid funeral plan to ease the financial and emotional burden on loved ones. Starting the Conversation These discussions can be sensitive, but you don’t have to face them alone. A calm, practical conversation can help your family understand what matters most to you. Consider raising the topic at a natural time – perhaps when updating your Will or arranging a Power of Attorney. If you need guidance on how to record your wishes properly, we’re here to help. SLS Wills and MoreOffice 4, Garrity House, Miners Way, Aylesham, Canterbury CT3 3BFPhone: 01304 577998Email: hello@slswillsandmore.co.uk

Trust article
Articles

Trust or Trap? Why Asset Protection Trusts May Not Be the Right Answer

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Over recent years, so-called asset protection trusts have been heavily marketed to families as a way to protect property, reduce care fees, or make estate planning “simple”. At first glance, these trusts may sound appealing. After all, most people want to make sure their home and savings pass on to their loved ones, without unnecessary cost or stress. But the reality is that these types of trusts can come with serious risks, and for the majority of people they are simply not the right option. The risks of asset protection trusts Some companies sell these trusts with bold promises, but they don’t always explain the potential downsides. Common risks include: Why we don’t recommend them for most people At SLS Wills and More, we pride ourselves on giving clear, honest advice. While trusts are a valuable tool in estate planning, they must be used in the right way and for the right reasons. Asset protection trusts are rarely suitable, and in most cases they create more problems than they solve. For the majority of families, there are safer and more effective ways to plan ahead, such as: Getting the right advice matters Estate planning is never “one size fits all”. What works well for one family could be completely wrong for another. That’s why we take the time to understand your circumstances, explain your options clearly, and guide you towards the solutions that genuinely protect your wishes and your loved ones. If you’ve been approached about an asset protection trust, or you’re worried about the risks, please speak to us before making any decisions.

Downton Abbey
Articles

Downton Abbey, Legacy and the Final Curtain

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When Downton Abbey: The Grand Finale hits cinemas in September 2025, it will bring to a close not just a beloved story, but a long-running exploration of heritage, inheritance, social change and the weight of passing on an estate. For those of us in the world of Wills, estate planning and trusts, the story resonates deeply. The Crawley family’s struggles with succession, debt, scandal and leadership transitions mirror real-life challenges families face when trying to preserve wealth and legacy across generations. Here are some key threads in the film that connect directly with the themes of inheritance and planning for the future. Estate Drama on the Big Screen Set in 1930, the film takes place during a period of financial uncertainty. The aftermath of the 1929 crash has placed even more pressure on the country’s great estates. Mary Crawley finds herself in the public eye after her divorce becomes a talking point, putting both her social standing and her influence at risk. Her American uncle, Harold Levinson, arrives with news of financial trouble and questionable investments, asking the family to consider investing Downton’s income to help recover his losses. Faced with tough choices, the family must decide whether to sell assets or take financial risks to secure their future. Meanwhile, Robert Crawley eventually hands over control of Downton to Mary, marking the next stage in the family’s generational journey. The film also pays tribute to Violet Crawley, whose legacy and inheritance have long been at the heart of the series. All of this mirrors real-world estate challenges: heirs with different priorities, valuable but illiquid assets, and the emotional weight that comes with inheritance. What Downton Teaches Us About Estate Planning The Crawleys’ experiences provide some surprisingly practical lessons for anyone thinking about their own estate plans. Challenge in the Film Real-Life Parallel Question to Consider Legacy and expectations Heirs may feel trapped by the duty to maintain a family legacy How much freedom should heirs have to reshape legacy assets? Financial pressure Estates often carry high maintenance costs and limited liquidity Are there plans in place to avoid forced sales or debt? Succession of control Passing on responsibility can cause friction Should management roles and ownership pass together or separately? Reputational risk Family issues can affect who inherits or how the estate is managed Are there protective clauses or clear instructions in place? Conflicting visions Beneficiaries may disagree about how to manage the estate Are decision-making rules clearly defined? Investment risk Large estates can be vulnerable to economic shifts Could diversification or partial sale strengthen long-term stability? Films, Legacy and the Story of Downton Abbey In A New Era, the Crawleys hosted a film crew at Downton, blending cinema with heritage and bringing new life to the estate. This theme continues in The Grand Finale, reminding us that estates are living stories, not static relics. Every building, portrait and garden at Downton carries history and identity, just like real family estates do. Estate planning is not only about assets and documents, but about preserving a story and a set of values. Downton Abbey shows us that legacy is about more than money. It is about responsibility, identity and the decisions that shape how future generations will remember us. Looking Ahead When Downton Abbey: The Grand Finale arrives, it will remind viewers that even the grandest estates must adapt to change. For those thinking about their own plans, it is the perfect time to reflect on how best to protect and pass on what matters most. Consider: The Crawleys may be fictional, but their story highlights something very real: the importance of good planning to ensure that legacy, love and family values live on long after the credits roll. If you would like advice or support with your own estate planning, contact SLS Wills and More: Address: Office 4, Garrity House, Miners Way, Aylesham, Canterbury CT3 3BFPhone: 01304 577998Email: hello@slswillsandmore.co.uk

older ages couple with wills
Articles

Do You Really Need a Will if You’re Married? The Common Misconceptions Explained

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One of the biggest myths in estate planning is that if you are married, you do not need a Will because “everything automatically goes to your spouse”. Unfortunately, this simply is not true. The rules around inheritance in England and Wales are not as straightforward as many people believe, and relying on assumptions can leave your loved ones in a very difficult position. At SLS Wills and More, we regularly meet couples who are surprised to discover what would actually happen to their estate if they did not make a Will. Let us break down the key misconceptions. Misconception 1: “My spouse will inherit everything” Under the rules of intestacy (the legal default if you die without a Will), your spouse or civil partner does not necessarily inherit everything. This can cause practical problems – especially if the family home is included in the estate value, as it could leave your spouse having to sell property or access funds they thought would be secure. Misconception 2: “We own everything jointly, so it doesn’t matter” While it is true that jointly owned property usually passes automatically to the surviving joint owner, not everything you own will be in joint names. Bank accounts, investments, business interests, or personal items may fall under intestacy rules instead. If assets are not set up in the right way, your spouse could end up sharing with your children or other relatives – which may not be what you intended. Misconception 3: “A Will is only for older people” Life is unpredictable. Accidents, illness, or sudden loss can happen at any age. If you have a spouse, children, property, or even just a small savings pot, making a Will ensures those you care about are protected. It is not about your age – it is about responsibility and peace of mind. Why a Will matters for married couples By making a Will, you can: Protecting your family’s future Marriage does not remove the need for a Will. In fact, for many couples, it makes having one even more important. Without clear instructions, your loved ones could face financial strain, legal complications, and unnecessary stress at an already difficult time. At SLS Wills and More, we help couples create Wills that give certainty, security, and peace of mind for the future.

Succession
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What Succession Teaches Us About Family Business Inheritance

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The hit TV series Succession may be filled with drama, boardroom battles, and billionaire lifestyles, but at its core it is about something very real: family, legacy, and the chaos that comes when inheritance planning goes wrong. While most of us do not own global media empires like the Roy family, many families in the UK do own businesses, properties, or investments that form a valuable part of their estate. The issues explored in Succession may be exaggerated for television, but they highlight the importance of planning properly for the future. 1. Unclear succession plans cause conflict In Succession, no one knows who Logan Roy really wants to take over. This uncertainty fuels constant power struggles between his children and colleagues. In real life, if you do not leave a clear Will or succession plan for your business, it can lead to disputes, delays, and even the collapse of the company. A well-drafted Will or trust can protect both your family and the business you worked so hard to build. 2. Equal shares are not always fair shares Logan’s children constantly compete over who deserves the biggest role. Splitting everything equally might sound fair, but in practice it is not always the best choice. For example, one child may be actively involved in running the business, while another has chosen a different career path. Estate planning allows you to reflect these differences thoughtfully, ensuring fairness without creating resentment. 3. Business continuity matters as much as inheritance In Succession, leadership changes threaten the stability of the company. In the real world, families need to think about how their business will run if something unexpected happens. Without a plan, key decisions can be delayed, staff left uncertain, and value lost. Putting powers of attorney and shareholder agreements in place can help keep things moving smoothly. 4. Family dynamics are as important as finances The Roys’ problems are not just about money. They are about relationships, egos, and unspoken tensions. Many families face similar challenges, albeit on a smaller scale. Talking openly about inheritance plans can reduce misunderstandings later. In some cases, involving a professional adviser as a neutral voice can make those conversations easier. 5. Legacy goes beyond money In the series, characters often question what their father’s legacy will really be. For many people, legacy is not just about wealth. It is about values, memories, and providing security for loved ones. Making a Will gives you control over your legacy, ensuring your business, assets, and personal wishes reflect what matters most to you. Secure your family’s future (without the drama) While Succession makes for entertaining television, few people would want that level of conflict in their own family. A clear, well-considered Will can prevent disputes, protect your business, and give your loved ones the clarity they need at a difficult time. At SLS Wills and More, we help families and business owners plan ahead with confidence and compassion. 👉 Speak to Sara today for a no-obligation chat about protecting your legacy.

Digital Assets
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The Rise of Digital Assets: What Happens to Your Social Media and Crypto When You Die?

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Most of us now live part of our lives online. From social media accounts and email to online banking, music libraries and even cryptocurrency, our digital assets are becoming just as important as the money in our wallets or the deeds to our homes. But what happens to these assets when you die? It is a question that many people have not considered, yet it is becoming increasingly important in modern estate planning. What counts as a digital asset? A digital asset can be anything that exists online and has either financial or sentimental value. Common examples include: Some of these have clear financial worth, while others hold personal value to families, containing memories, photographs or correspondence. The challenges of digital inheritance Unlike a house or savings account, digital assets are often controlled by terms and conditions set by the provider. For example, some platforms will close an account when notified of a death, while others allow memorialisation or transfer. Cryptocurrency presents even bigger challenges because access depends on private keys and passwords. Without these, funds may be lost forever. Why you should plan ahead Including digital assets in your Will and leaving clear instructions can make a huge difference. By doing so you can: It is also important to keep a secure record of usernames, passwords and recovery details, stored in a way that trusted people can access when the time comes. How SLS Wills and More can help At SLS Wills and More we recognise that modern life is not just about bricks, mortar and bank accounts. Your online presence and digital wealth matter too. We can help you make sure your digital assets are considered in your estate planning, so nothing is forgotten or lost. Protecting your legacy now means thinking about both the physical and the digital. 👉 Speak to Sara today for advice on including digital assets in your Will.

Funeral Planning
Articles

The Cost of Dying: Why Planning Ahead Has Never Mattered More

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A recent Metro article has highlighted a heartbreaking reality: many parents in the UK can no longer afford to die. With funerals now costing thousands, more and more families are turning to credit cards, crowdfunding, or personal loans just to say goodbye. One father in the article shared that he had asked his children to cremate him without a service, not out of preference, but to spare them the financial burden. It’s a stark example of how rising funeral costs are creating emotional and financial distress at an already devastating time. At SLS Wills and More, we hear these stories far too often. But it doesn’t have to be this way. The rising cost of funerals The average cost of a basic funeral in the UK has now surpassed £4,000, and that’s before you consider flowers, transport, a wake, or other extras. Many families simply aren’t prepared, especially when the death is unexpected. What follows is often a scramble to cover costs while navigating grief and legal responsibilities. There is a better way, plan ahead With 38 years of experience in estate planning, Sara from SLS Wills and More has supported thousands of families through these moments. She knows that forward planning is one of the most caring things you can do. Here’s how we help: 1. Create a WillYour Will is not just a legal document, it’s a gift to your family. It can include your funeral wishes, name your executors, and ensure your estate is managed smoothly. 2. Explore FCA-regulated funeral plansPre-paid funeral plans allow you to lock in today’s prices and protect your family from rising costs. Since 2022, these plans are regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA), which means you’re protected by law. Only FCA-authorised providers can sell plans, removing the risk of poor value or hidden clauses. We only work with trusted, regulated partners and explain everything in plain English. 3. Consider Lasting Powers of Attorney (LPAs)An LPA ensures someone you trust can make decisions for you if you lose capacity. It’s a vital part of planning ahead, particularly for health and financial matters. Alternatives to traditional funerals Many people are now choosing simpler, more affordable or environmentally conscious options: You don’t have to follow a traditional route, and knowing your options in advance means your wishes can be respected. Why choose SLS Wills and More? Sara is a full member of the Society of Trust and Estate Practitioners (TEP), a Fellow of the Society of Will Writers, and a tutor at the College of Will Writing. She also mentors newly qualified Will writers and has built a 5-star reputation locally, with over 54 five-star Google reviews. We’re proud to offer clear, professional advice with no pressure and no jargon, just honest, experienced guidance tailored to your needs. Let’s start the conversation We know it’s not easy to talk about death, but it’s harder to deal with it unprepared. Whether you’re looking to write your Will, put a funeral plan in place, or simply understand your options, we’re here to help. Book a free chat with Sara todayCall us or book online at www.slswillsandmore.co.uk

Modern Law Awards
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Sara Sheppard Highly Commended as Managing Partner of the Year at Modern Law Private Client Awards 2025

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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.

Charitable legacies
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Charitable Gifts in Wills: A Win for Your Loved Ones and Your Favourite Cause

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Many people don’t realise that they can support the causes they care about through their Will, without taking anything away from the people they love. In fact, leaving a gift to charity in your Will can help reduce Inheritance Tax and leave a meaningful legacy long after you’re gone. Despite this, research shows that while 1 in 3 supporters over the age of 40 say they’d consider leaving a gift to charity, most never do, simply because no one asked them to. At SLS Wills and More, we want to help change that. Why consider a charitable gift in your Will? Charitable legacies help fund thousands of vital services across the UK, from cancer research and animal rescue to local hospices and community support. Even a small gift can make a big difference. You don’t have to choose between family and charity. With careful planning, you can support both. A charitable gift could also reduce the Inheritance Tax payable on your estate. If you leave at least 10% of your net estate to charity, the overall IHT rate on the remainder of your estate may be reduced from 40% to 36%. This can mean your chosen causes benefit, and your family still receives more than they might otherwise. What can you leave? There are several types of charitable gift you can include in your Will: 1. A fixed sum (pecuniary gift)E.g. “I leave £1,000 to Cancer Research UK.” 2. A specific itemE.g. A painting, a piece of jewellery, or even shares. 3. A share of your estate (residuary gift)E.g. “I leave 5% of my estate to Air Ambulance Kent Surrey Sussex.” Residuary gifts tend to have the most long-term impact and are often the simplest way to make a difference. It should also be noted that the examples above may not be legally binding and propert advice and wording should be used. When we draft Wills, we use the correct language and gift structures. How to choose a charity You might already have a cause close to your heart – one that supported you or a loved one, or something you’ve always admired. If not, consider what values matter most to you. Do you want to support medical research? Help animals? Protect the environment? Support a local group? You can leave gifts to national or local charities, and we can help you ensure your Will includes the correct charity name and registered number to avoid any confusion. Making it simple At SLS Wills and More, we’ll guide you through the process so your charitable wishes are clearly set out and legally sound. We also offer guidance on talking to family about your plans, so everyone understands what matters to you and why. These conversations can be incredibly positive and give loved ones peace of mind. Leaving a legacy: If you’re thinking about including a charity in your Will – or just want to explore the idea – I’d be happy to chat. You don’t need to make a final decision straight away. Let’s talk about how your Will can reflect your values and create a legacy that lasts.

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