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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.

In my over 35 years of experience in the estate planning industry, I’ve witnessed the landscape evolve significantly. As a Fellow of the Society of Will Writers, a member of their Professional Standards Board, an associate of TAS, and a full member of STEP (Society of Trust and Estate Practitioners), I have dedicated my career to providing families with the best possible estate planning solutions. However, I’ve also grown increasingly concerned about the rise of online Wills and the potential threats they pose to comprehensive estate planning. The ease of accessing online Will services may give the impression that creating a Will is a simple and straightforward task. However, the reality is far more complex. Estate planning is not a one-size-fits-all solution, and the nuances of individual family situations can be intricate and unique. As the saying goes, “You don’t know what you don’t know,” and this rings particularly true when it comes to estate planning. Online Will services often provide templated documents that may appear sufficient on the surface but may not take into account the complexities of your family’s dynamics, assets, and specific wishes. A basic online Will might cover the basics, but it may overlook crucial considerations, leaving your loved ones vulnerable to unexpected challenges. Often, seeking professional advice gives you confidence that should something go wrong, you’re protected through adequate insurance etc. At SLS Wills and More, we understand that the allure of convenience may lead people to opt for online Wills. In response to this demand, we have developed an online offering of our own. However, it’s essential to highlight that our approach is far from a simple, automated online document generator. We firmly believe that the quality and accuracy of estate planning documents should never be compromised. Our online offering unlike many includes a thorough review of all documents and instructions by our experienced team. We recognise that each family’s situation is unique, and our commitment is to ensure that every aspect of your estate planning is tailored to your specific needs. But, this is only the tip of the iceberg when it comes to comprehensive estate planning. A truly professional and responsible Will writing service goes beyond document creation. We firmly believe that the process should encompass the proper execution of the Will, including ensuring it is signed correctly, witnessed accurately, and in compliance with all legal requirements (S.9 of the Wills Act). This is where the team at SLS Wills and More is particularly passionate. We understand that the final steps in estate planning can be just as crucial as the initial document creation. Our commitment to our clients extends to offering a meticulous checking service, ensuring that every detail is accounted for and that your estate plan is ironclad. While online Wills may seem like a convenient solution, they often fall short when it comes to comprehensive estate planning. Your family’s financial and personal circumstances are unique, and a one-size-fits-all approach can leave you vulnerable to unforeseen challenges. As someone with extensive industry experience and a commitment to protecting your interests, I urge you to consider the complexities of your situation and the importance of working with professionals who truly understand your needs. At SLS Wills and More, we are dedicated to ensuring your estate plan is robust, tailored, and legally sound, from start to finish.

KENT, UK – 6th February 2024 – SLS Wills and More, the leading estate planning firm headquartered in Kent, is thrilled to announce that they have been shortlisted for two coveted awards at the upcoming Legal Growth Awards 2024. The awards ceremony will be held at the Doubletree by Hilton in Lincoln in March, not far from the SWW head office to which Sara is a Fellow Member and tutor for the College of Will Writing, on the 12th March the winners will be revealed. SLS Wills and More is nominated for the following categories: “Best Website” and “Best Marketing” for their efforts in educating the public about the need for effective estate planning. The Legal Growth Awards, marked by the hashtag #LegalGrowthAwards, recognise and celebrate excellence in the legal industry, specifically focusing on outstanding achievements in various aspects of business development and client engagement. SLS Wills and More’s nominations in both the “Best Website” and “Best Marketing” categories reflect their commitment to innovation, communication and exceptional service in the legal sector. Sara, Founder and Managing Director of SLS Wills and More, expressed her excitement and gratitude for being shortlisted for these prestigious awards: “We are delighted to be nominated for the ‘Best Website’ and ‘Best Marketing’ categories at the Legal Growth Awards 2024. This recognition is a testament to the hard work of the team, which is supported by the 40+ 5-star reviews we have received from our clients over the same period. At SLS, we are dedicated to providing top-notch estate planning services, and our online presence and marketing efforts play a crucial role in connecting with our clients and ensuring their peace of mind.” Sara and the SLS Wills and More team have a track record of success in the legal industry, having been highly commended at the British Wills and Probate Awards for “Will Writing Firm of the Year (National)” in previous years. In addition, they clinched two awards at last year’s Legal Growth Awards for “Best Social Media” and “Best Website.” The team at SLS Wills and More eagerly anticipates the awards ceremony in March, where they will find out if they have been successful in securing the titles of “Best Website” and “Best Marketing.” Their commitment to excellence in estate planning and their dedication to client satisfaction continue to set them apart in the industry. For media inquiries and interview requests, please contact; sara@slswillsandmore.co.uk About SLS Wills and More: SLS Wills and More is a leading estate planning firm based in Kent, UK, providing comprehensive estate planning services to clients seeking to secure their legacies and protect their loved ones. With a strong commitment to professionalism, innovation, and client satisfaction, SLS Wills and More has earned recognition and accolades in the legal industry for their exceptional service and expertise.

SLS Wills and More Founder – Sara Sheppard recently put a post on LinkedIn about probate delays… Here is a quick summary from Sara: In recent times, many of my esteemed colleagues in the field of estate planning, particularly those at STEP – Advising Families Across Generations, and probate practitioners, have found themselves grappling with the frustrating issue of significant delays in obtaining Probate. While there have been changes in management within the Probate Registry, the real question remains whether these changes will lead to the much-needed investment in experienced senior staff to expedite the processing of applications. The press has recently shed light on this problem, but the concern is that it may not necessarily result in improved turnaround times. Instead, it may fuel the emergence of more “solutions to avoid probate.” This is where our collective responsibility as practitioners comes into play. We must address the challenges posed by these delays and provide genuine answers and guidance to our clients and their families. One of the primary concerns is that individuals facing extensive Probate delays might be tempted to explore alternative options, such as placing their properties into trusts. While this can be a viable solution, it is imperative to proceed with caution and consult with a reputable firm that possesses the expertise to offer sound advice. If you come across an advertisement promoting such services, I urge you to exercise due diligence. The marketing of trust-based solutions is not always as transparent as it should be, and you should verify the credentials and reviews of your adviser. Putting your house into a trust is not a straightforward process, and the consequences can be far-reaching, potentially deviating from your initial intentions. It is crucial to remember that your motivations behind such decisions may also be scrutinized to determine if you have deliberately deprived yourself of assets, which could have unintended legal implications. The heightened visibility of severe delays at the Probate Registry may lead to an increase in the promotion of “solutions to avoid probate.” As practitioners, it is our duty to counter this hype with well-informed and genuine solutions. While I may not have all the answers at this moment, it is high time that we, as professionals, take a stand to protect the best interests of our clients and their families. In the face of these challenges, I am reminded of the saying, “Answers on a postcard, please!” While the solutions to Probate delays may not be readily apparent, our commitment to seeking them out and providing reliable guidance to our clients remains unwavering. Let us continue to advocate for the welfare of our clients and work collectively to find ways to navigate these trying times in estate planning.

Dementia is a growing concern in the United Kingdom, affecting not only the individuals diagnosed but also their loved ones. According to the Alzheimer’s Society, there are currently around 850,000 people living with dementia in the UK, with that number expected to rise to over one million by 2025. In this blog, SLS Wills and More explains what you need to know about dementia and estate planning, focusing on Lasting Powers of Attorney (LPA) and how these crucial documents are affected by mental capacity. Types of Dementia: Dementia is not a single disease but an umbrella term for a range of cognitive impairments. The most common form is Alzheimer’s disease, which accounts for around two-thirds of all dementia cases. Other types include vascular dementia, frontotemporal dementia, and dementia with Lewy bodies. Each type has its unique characteristics and progression, making it essential to understand the specific challenges they pose when it comes to estate planning. What is Mental Capacity: Mental capacity refers to an individual’s ability to make decisions for themselves. In the context of estate planning, it is crucial that individuals have the mental capacity to make informed choices about their finances, property, and personal welfare. Where this mental capacity is lacking you’re unable to make documents like a Will or Lasting Power of Attorney. It’s therefore essential to get peace of mind knowing these documents are in place whilst we still have the requisite capacity. When dementia or other cognitive disorders impair mental capacity, it becomes necessary to plan to ensure that your wishes are still respected. Why Make an LPA: Lasting Powers of Attorney (LPA) are powerful legal documents that allow you to appoint trusted individuals, known as attorneys, to make decisions on your behalf should you become unable to do so yourself due to diminished mental capacity. LPAs come in two main forms: Property and Financial Affairs LPA and Health and Welfare LPA. By establishing these documents while you are still mentally capable, you can have peace of mind knowing that your affairs will be managed according to your preferences in the event of dementia or any other incapacitating condition. You pick your attorneys so choose people who you trust. Your attorneys have a responsibility to make decisions in your best interest so any thought of them frivolously spending all of your money can be forgotten. People have been prosecuted for such an act. Lots of people choose children or their partner to act as their attorney. If in doubt, speak to Sara or the team at SLS Wills and More about the appointment of attorneys. Who is Affected by Dementia: Dementia does not just impact the individuals diagnosed; it also takes a toll on their families and friends. The emotional and financial burden can be significant, and proper estate planning can help alleviate some of the stress associated with dementia. It is crucial for family members to be aware of the importance of LPAs and to discuss them proactively with their loved ones. Where to Get Support: If you or someone you know has received a dementia diagnosis, it’s essential to seek support and guidance. In the UK, organizations like the Alzheimer’s Society, Dementia UK, and Age UK offer a wealth of resources, information, and support services for individuals living with dementia and their families. Additionally, speaking to legal experts like Sara and the team at SLS Wills and More can provide invaluable advice on estate planning, LPAs, and ensuring your wishes are protected. Dementia is a growing concern in the UK, affecting a significant number of individuals and their families. Estate planning, especially Lasting Powers of Attorney, plays a vital role in ensuring that your wishes are respected even when faced with diminished mental capacity. If you or someone you know is dealing with dementia, it’s crucial to seek support and professional guidance to navigate the complexities of estate planning. At SLS Wills and More, we are here to help you make informed decisions and secure your future. Don’t hesitate to reach out to Sara and our dedicated team for assistance in safeguarding your estate and ensuring peace of mind during challenging times.

“No one can confidently say that he will still be living tomorrow” – Euripides. Death is an inevitable part of life, and while it’s not a topic we like to dwell on, it’s essential to consider what happens to your body after you pass away, especially from an estate planning perspective. Understanding the legal aspects of body ownership and funeral arrangements can help you make informed decisions and prevent potential conflicts among your loved ones. Ownership of a Deceased Body: The notion of ownership is central to many aspects of our lives, but when it comes to your body after death, things are quite different. Legally speaking, your deceased body is not considered property and cannot be owned by anyone. This principle was established in the case of Haynes in 1614, where it was ruled that there can be no property in a corpse. This means that your body cannot be considered part of your estate, and your beneficiaries have no legal rights over your remains. Responsibility for Funeral Arrangements: While no one can claim ownership of a deceased body, the responsibility for deciding what happens to your body after death falls on your personal representatives. Personal representatives are individuals appointed by you in your Will as executors. They are tasked with carrying out your wishes, including any funeral or burial arrangements you specify in your Will. When you pass away without a Will or fail to provide clear instructions regarding your funeral wishes, conflicts may arise among family members or those handling your estate. To avoid such disputes, it is essential to appoint trusted individuals as your executors and clearly outline your funeral preferences in your Will. This way, your wishes will be legally binding, and your executors can ensure they are carried out accordingly. Changing Times and Environmental Considerations: The law regarding the disposition of deceased bodies has remained largely unchanged for centuries. However, societal norms and environmental concerns are evolving. Modern alternatives to traditional burial and cremation methods, such as resomation and cryomation (immersing a body in liquid nitrogen), are gaining popularity. The law needs to adapt to these changes to accommodate more sustainable and environmentally friendly practices. Recognising this need, the Law Commission has initiated a project to create a modern framework for disposing of the deceased. This project aims to review existing laws on cremation and burials, address the legal status of a deceased person’s wishes regarding their body, and clarify the rules regarding the ownership of a body after death. It’s an important step towards aligning the law with the evolving expectations and practices in our society. Recent Case: OTITOJU V ONWORDI [2023] EWHC 2665 A recent case underscores the importance of having a clear legal framework in place. In the case of OTITOJU V ONWORDI [2023] EWHC 2665, a dispute arose over the possession of a deceased’s body and funeral arrangements. The court’s decision highlighted the significance of having a valid Will, as it determined who had the right to possess the body and make funeral arrangements. Remember – your body after death cannot be owned by anyone, but the responsibility for making funeral arrangements lies with your executors, as appointed in your Will. To avoid potential conflicts and ensure your wishes are carried out, it’s crucial to create a Will that includes clear instructions regarding your funeral preferences. If you have any questions, feel free to reach out to our friendly team for guidance.

At SLS Wills and More, we are proud of the service we provide and deeply value the feedback we receive from our clients. Each review is a story of trust, satisfaction, and a testament to our commitment to exceptional estate planning services. As we celebrate our 37 five-star Google reviews, we want to share some of these, showcasing the real impact we have on our clients’ lives. Comprehensive Estate Planning: One client shared, “Though we had our Will prepared nearly 15 years ago, it was important to have them reviewed and updated due to some changes in personal circumstances and also the tax legislation. We were so pleased that Rima visited us personally to discuss the changes and also provide guidance on the Family Trust and how the changes in Inheritance Tax legislation may impact the tax liability which we were expecting to avoid. We also managed to get Power Of Attorney set up to ensure our family members do not have to worry about expensive Probate Services when we are gone. Thank you Rima for your dedication and attention to every detail we wanted to resolve and to have that peace of mind.” Professionalism and Efficiency: Another client appreciated our approach, saying, “Very professional service. Thank you for assisting in an efficient but friendly manner.” Bespoke Services and Ongoing Support: A particularly detailed review from a repeat client highlights our tailored approach: “[Original 2022 post with June 2023 update added] Sara provided an excellent bespoke service, well suited to my specific needs. So far I have used her services twice – once for a will and once for a specific legal document relating to inheritance. In both cases, the introductory meetings were informative, relaxed and unhurried and were used to gather all the relevant details which were required for the respective documents, which were then delivered in a timely manner. Whenever I had any questions or concerns, Sara always responded promptly. The will was also accompanied by detailed and useful explanatory notes, together with helpful suggestions for further steps and actions. The charge for this service was very reasonable. Sara’s knowledge, experience and expertise meant that she was the right choice to deliver what I needed. I will definitely be using her services again and can thoroughly recommend her. Update – June 2023: I have now also used Sara to put in place my Lasting Powers of Attorney for both ‘Property and Financial Affairs’ and ‘Health and Welfare’. Once again, her service was excellent. The LPAs were tailored to my specific needs and the whole process went through smoothly. I continue to recommend her services and am delighted to do so.” These reviews are not just feedback; they are personal stories of how our services have positively impacted lives. They speak to our dedication, expertise, and the care we put into each case. We are grateful for every review and remain committed to delivering the high-quality service that our clients have come to expect from SLS Wills and More. Your voice matters to us, and we thank you for sharing your experiences. Should you need your Will writing, we hope that these reviews give you an indication as to the service you’ll recieve from our small but professional team.

If recent weeks have shown us anything, the importance of planning for the future, especially regarding estate matters, cannot be overstated. At SLS Wills and More, based in the picturesque county of Kent, we have witnessed firsthand how unexpected events can significantly impact our lives and the lives of those around us. This underscores the vital necessity of having robust estate planning in place, a service we are proud to offer to our community. Thankfully, the recent events for our team haven’t been too serious but the unpredictability of life’s events is a common thread that binds us all. For instance, one of our colleagues and estate planning consultants, recently experienced a dislocated knee – an unforeseen event that brought both physical and logistical challenges. Similarly, Jess, a valued member of our office team, faced health difficulties due to Covid. In my own life, I underwent back surgery, which, although anticipated, still required meticulous planning to ensure a smooth transition during recovery and to make sure our clients were still able to get the support they needed. These personal experiences mirror the unexpected twists and turns that life often presents. They serve as a poignant reminder of why planning for the future is not just advisable but essential. In the realm of estate planning, the unforeseen can take many forms. A partner might announce intentions for a divorce or a break-up, a scenario that necessitates a reevaluation of one’s estate plans. Whilst unmarried partners won’t benefit from an estate without a Will in place, if you experience a break up and do have a Will in place it would need to be reviewed. For divorce, the ex-partner is treated as though they have predeceased you. If it’s an amicable break up and you’d still like them to benefit from your estate then you’ll need to review your planning. The sudden passing of a loved one is another stark reality that many face, often without warning. All too often we see this and the loved ones’ lack of planning can cause issues. It would be awful if something should happen to you and you hadn’t taken the time to plan. Something for serious consideration. On a more positive note, an unexpected inheritance can also come our way, presenting both opportunities and the need for careful planning to manage the newfound assets responsibly. For some, they don’t want the inheritance as it might create an Inheritance Tax liability of their own. They might choose to forego a gift in favour of a child etc. These scenarios highlight the importance of having a plan that can adapt to life’s unpredictable nature. Estate planning is not just about drafting a document; it’s about creating a flexible strategy that can withstand life’s many surprises. It’s about ensuring that your wishes are respected, and your loved ones are taken care of, no matter what the future holds. Most importantly, it’s about making sure that these documents are always relevant. When we make plans, we plan for the future but the advice we provide is very much tailored to the position at the time the documents are drafted. The recent news about the projected increase in the national minimum wage, or the possible scrapping of IHT is an example of legislative change which could impact our financial or estate planning position. At SLS Wills and More, our commitment is to provide personalised, compassionate, and professional guidance in all aspects of estate planning. Whether it’s drafting a Will, setting up trusts, or advising on inheritance tax implications, our experienced team is here to ensure that your estate planning is robust, flexible, and tailored to your unique circumstances. It might be that for the next couple of weeks, those that see us see her over a video call.

Dealing with the estate of a loved one can be a daunting and stressful task, especially during a time of grief. SLS Wills and More offers expert guidance on navigating the complexities of probate and estate administration. This article aims to clarify some of the processes, outline possible associated costs, highlight potential problems, and demonstrate how our services can ease this challenging journey. 1. What is Probate? Probate is the legal process of validating a deceased person’s Will. It involves proving that the Will is genuine and administering the estate according to its terms. If the deceased did not leave a Will, probate (or obtaining The Letters of Administration) ensures the estate is distributed according to the rules of intestacy. 2. Probate vs. Estate Administration: While probate and estate administration are often used interchangeably, they are distinct processes. Probate primarily concerns the legality of the Will and obtaining the right to be able to administer the estate, whereas estate administration encompasses the entire process of managing and distributing the deceased’s assets. This includes paying debts, closing accounts, and distributing assets to beneficiaries, amongst other responsibilities. 3. Who Can Do Probate? Probate can be undertaken by the executors named in the Will or, if there is no Will, by relatives of the deceased. Individuals can conduct probate independently, but due to its complexity, many opt for professional assistance. If there are executors named in the Will (perhaps it’s you) and they don’t want to act then they may renounce and hand over to a professional. 4. Costs of Probate: Costs vary depending on the estate’s size and complexity. They typically include court fees, legal and professional fees, and potential taxes. SLS Wills and More offers transparent pricing and can tailor services to fit various budgets. We offer a fixed price for our estate administration process so that you’re aware of the fees in advance. 5. Potential Problems in Probate: Common issues include disputes over the Will’s validity, challenges from disgruntled beneficiaries, and complexities in locating and valuing assets. Such problems can delay the process and increase costs. That’s why it’s imperative that Wills are correctly drafting and leave no ambiguity over the testators wishes. 6. How SLS Wills and More Can Assist: Our experienced team offers comprehensive support in probate and estate administration. We’ve been involved in estate planning for over 25 years prior to setting up SLS Wills and More and have been helping our clients ever since. We provide guidance on legal requirements, assist in asset valuation, and can ensure that the estate is distributed as quickly as possible. Our aim is to simplify the process, providing peace of mind during difficult times – all whilst keeping the all relevant parties informed. 7. Practical Considerations: When dealing with a loved one’s estate, it’s essential to: Navigating probate and estate administration can be complex and emotionally taxing. At SLS Wills and More, we understand the intricacies of these processes and are dedicated to providing compassionate and professional assistance. Should you have any questions about the process, do let us know and we’ll do our best to support.

When it comes to estate planning, and building trust, Sara Sheppard TEP, the founder of SLS Wills and More places a huge value on this. Sara has been a full member of STEP (Society of Trust and Estate Practitioners) for years and holds the prestigious TEP (Trust and Estate Practitioner) accreditation. When asked about Sara’s membership with STEP, she shed light on the organisation itself, and explained why TEP accreditation is a coveted achievement for estate planning professionals. A Glimpse into STEP Before delving into the merits of TEP accreditation, let’s first understand what STEP is and why it exists. STEP is a global professional association for practitioners who specialise in family inheritance and succession planning. Established in 1991, STEP has since grown to become a leading authority in the field of trusts, estates, and wealth management. STEP’s primary mission is to promote high professional standards among its members and foster public confidence in the trust and estate planning profession. The organisation accomplishes this by providing education, training, and a global network of like-minded professionals. Membership in STEP signifies a commitment to maintaining the highest ethical and technical standards in the industry. TEP: The Gold Standard At the heart of STEP’s mission lies the TEP accreditation, an acronym that signifies Trust and Estate Practitioner. Becoming a TEP is no small feat; it represents the pinnacle of professional achievement in the field of estate planning. TEP status is a testament to an individual’s expertise, experience, and commitment to upholding the highest standards of practice. TEP accreditation is a comprehensive qualification that covers various aspects of trust and estate planning, including taxation, legal considerations, ethics, and the practical application of knowledge. Holders of this accreditation are recognised worldwide as experts in their field, and they are held to a strict code of professional conduct. Why TEP Matters For professionals in the estate planning industry, obtaining TEP accreditation is not just an accolade; it is a validation of their expertise and dedication to serving their clients’ best interests. Here are some compelling reasons why TEP membership matters: 1. Expertise: TEPs have undergone rigorous training and examination to acquire in-depth knowledge of estate planning, trusts, and taxation. This expertise ensures that clients receive the highest quality advice and guidance. 2. Ethical Standards: TEPs adhere to STEP’s stringent Code of Professional Conduct, which emphasises the highest ethical standards and integrity. Clients can trust TEPs to act in their best interests. 3. Global Network: Being part of the STEP community provides TEPs with access to a vast network of fellow professionals worldwide. This network facilitates collaboration, knowledge-sharing, and access to the latest industry developments. 4. Continuous Learning: STEP encourages its members, including TEPs, to engage in ongoing professional development. This commitment to learning ensures that TEPs stay up-to-date with the ever-evolving legal and financial landscape. 5. Client Confidence: TEP status is a mark of excellence that instill confidence in clients. Knowing that their estate planning is in the hands of a TEP can provide clients with peace of mind. For Sara though, this wasn’t enough. She’s also a Fellow (FSWW) of the Society of Will Writers, sits on their Professional Standards Board AND trains estate planning professionals as a tutor at The College of Will Writing. Sara Sheppard TEP: A Beacon of Excellence Sara Sheppard’s membership in STEP and her attainment of TEP status (in Oct 2003 – 20 years ago) exemplify her dedication to providing top-notch estate planning services through SLS Wills and More. As the founder of the firm, Sara has set a standard of excellence that is evident in her commitment to lifelong learning, unwavering ethics, and a genuine desire to help clients navigate the complexities of estate planning. Sara’s TEP accreditation is a testament to her dedication to the craft, and it underscores her mission to provide the highest level of service and expertise to her clients in Kent and beyond. Her affiliation with STEP and her TEP status are not just symbols of professional accomplishment; they are a promise of exceptional service and a commitment to the well-being of her clients. Tom Stansfield https://www.lincolnshiremarketing.co.uk