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Pete's Dragon
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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.

Home Alone Christmas Film and Will Writing
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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.

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.

Cinderella SLS
Articles

Fairy Tale Estate Planning: Cinderella, the Wicked Stepmother, and Why You Need a Will

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Welcome back to the next chapter in our whimsical (but surprisingly serious) look at fairy tales and estate planning. Following the success of our hypothetical Simba case study, we now turn to another iconic tale: Cinderella. This time, we’re tackling the tricky topic of blended families, wicked stepmothers, and why having a Will is essential for ensuring your estate doesn’t end up in a pumpkin-shaped mess. The (Hypothetical) Estate of Cinderella’s Father Let’s imagine that Cinderella’s father was a wealthy gentleman who, like many parents, wanted to ensure his daughter was well cared for after his passing. Tragically, he didn’t make a Will – maybe he was busy organising the household or distracted by a suspiciously high dry-cleaning bill for his daughter’s rags. Under the rules of intestacy in England and Wales, Cinderella’s stepmother – as the spouse – would inherit the first £322,000 of his estate outright, plus half of the remainder. The other half of what’s left would go to Cinderella. But we know how that story ends: the wicked stepmother pockets her share and, with her less-than-saintly intentions, keeps Cinderella locked in the attic while her own daughters revel in riches. We call this sideways disinheritance. It’s a scenario that might make even the Fairy Godmother despair. The Problem with Intestacy Without a Will, you lose control over how your estate is distributed. In blended families – like Cinderella’s – this can lead to heartbreak and inequality. If Cinderella’s father had a Will, he could have protected her share of the inheritance, ensuring it was used for her benefit rather than being squandered on fancy dresses and ballroom tickets for her stepsisters. By appointing trustees, he could have also stipulated conditions for how and when Cinderella received her inheritance. For instance, releasing funds for her education (maybe those ballroom dance classes?) or for her future home – something she clearly needed after years of attic accommodation. What Could Cinderella’s Father Have Done? A Modern-Day Cinderella If Cinderella’s tale played out in 2024 or even 2025, she might have sought legal advice (hopefully before marrying into royalty – those pre-nups are tricky!). With a well-drafted Will and a bit of estate planning, her father could have avoided years of attic misery and set her on a clearer path to happily ever after. Lessons for All of Us Whether your family is more like Cinderella’s or closer to a Disney-esque dream, the importance of having a Will can’t be overstated. Blended families, second marriages, and stepchildren bring unique challenges to estate planning. Without proper provisions, your estate might not go to the people you care about most – and could lead to squabbles worthy of a panto. The Serious Bit in Fairy-Tale Wrapping It’s easy to overlook estate planning, especially when life feels like a whirlwind of chores and unexpected transformations. But the reality is this: making a Will gives you control, protects your loved ones, and ensures your wishes are carried out. So, don’t let your legacy be left to chance or at the mercy of a wicked stepmother. Whether you’re a prince, a pauper, or somewhere in between, make your estate plan your very own fairy-tale ending. And remember, if your pumpkin carriage breaks down on the way to our office, we’re here to help. The moral of the story? Don’t leave your estate planning to a bibbidi-bobbidi-boo – leave it to SLS Wills and More!

Aquaman
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Estate Planning Lessons from Aquaman: Navigating the Depths of Inheritance and Legacy

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In Aquaman, we watch Arthur Curry’s journey as he grapples with his dual heritage—one foot on the shore as the son of a human lighthouse keeper, and the other deep beneath the waves as heir to the throne of Atlantis. Filled with underwater kingdoms, shifting allegiances, and power struggles, this DC Comics tale might seem an unlikely lens through which to view estate planning. Yet, if we translate these oceanic intrigues into a scenario under the laws of England and Wales, the story reveals timeless lessons about safeguarding one’s legacy. The Rightful Heir and Clear Instructions At the heart of Aquaman is the question of rightful succession. Arthur Curry, as the son of Atlanna (the Queen of Atlantis) and Thomas Curry (a human), possesses a claim to the Atlantean throne. However, without clear, legally binding directives, determining succession becomes an undersea tug-of-war. This echoes a common dilemma on land: if a parent passes away without a valid will, the question of inheritance can become murky, triggering disputes and, at worst, estranged family members battling over control. In England and Wales, a proper will sets out who should inherit and how. Had Atlanna left a well-drafted estate plan—detailing not just who would be her heir, but also providing for any mixed-heritage complexities—Arthur might have avoided confrontation with Orm, his half-brother, and spared Atlantis unnecessary conflict. Transparent directives in a will ensure that your loved ones know your wishes, minimising squabbles and safeguarding familial harmony, both on land and at sea. Appointing Executors and Trustees: Guardians of Your Estate In the Atlantean world, trusted advisors and loyal counsel are essential to maintaining peace and order. In your own estate plan, the equivalent of these advisers are the executors and trustees. Executors carry out the instructions of your will, ensuring that assets are distributed as intended. Trustees look after any trusts you create, managing assets on behalf of beneficiaries—much like a noble steward carefully overseeing the kingdom’s resources. With executors and trustees in place, even if the waters of life grow choppy, your estate remains on course. Should your family members become divided or uncertain, these appointed guardians can maintain stability, just as stalwart Atlantean allies help preserve Atlantis in times of turmoil. Safeguarding Children and Mixed-Heritage Families Arthur Curry is half-human, half-Atlantean—a dual identity that poses unique challenges. In England and Wales, cross-border estates or families with international ties often require additional estate planning measures. If you own assets abroad or hold citizenships in more than one country, you may need advice on creating wills that comply with multiple jurisdictions, preventing future misunderstandings or conflicts. What if Arthur, as a child, had been left without guidance or guardianship provisions in his parents’ estate plan? His upbringing and claim to Atlantis might have been far more uncertain. By naming guardians, or setting up trusts to protect assets for younger beneficiaries until they come of age, parents can ensure the welfare and stability of their children, no matter the complexity of their heritage or inheritance. Plan for the Unexpected: LPAs and Contingency Measures Atlanna’s sudden disappearance and the resulting power vacuum in Atlantis highlight the unpredictability of life’s currents. In the real world, if an accident or illness leaves you unable to make decisions, a Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA) can ensure that a trusted individual steps in to manage your finances or make healthcare decisions on your behalf. This level of preparedness not only prevents chaos but also reassures family members that someone reliable is at the helm. While Atlantean royalty have their own ways of dealing with crises, on land, drafting LPAs ensures that should unforeseen circumstances arise, your finances and personal welfare remain under responsible stewardship. A Legacy That Endures In Aquaman, Arthur’s ultimate quest is not just to claim the throne, but to bring unity, understanding, and peace between two worlds. This resonates strongly with estate planning’s core purpose: ensuring your legacy endures in a way that reflects your values, cares for the people you love, and prevents unnecessary conflict. A well-structured estate plan provides the opportunity to pass on your values—whether that’s encouraging education through a trust for a grandchild’s school fees, ensuring a family home remains in trusted hands, or supporting charities that matter to you. By taking proactive steps now, you’re ensuring that your legacy, like Atlantis’s hidden treasures, is protected and carefully guided into future generations. How SLS Wills and More Can Help At SLS Wills and More, we understand that creating an estate plan can feel as complex as navigating uncharted oceans. Our team can help you draft a will, establish trusts, appoint guardians and executors, and put LPAs in place. Together, these measures form a secure harbour against the storms of uncertainty and inheritance disputes. Ready to ensure your legacy is as enduring as Atlantis itself? Contact us today, and let us guide you through every stage of the estate planning process, safeguarding your family’s future with the same resolve and clarity that leads Aquaman to unite and protect the worlds he cherishes.

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