The understanding and awareness of Dementia is increasing as more and more people are willing to speak out about their experiences, take action and break down barriers and stigmas.
We appreciate that the subjects of capacity, memory, Wills and death can be daunting to talk about, but they are necessary discussions to have.If you are uncertain on how best to talk about these subjects, possibly because you are unsure how you would go about getting your legal affairs in order; or, you just don’t feel you need to; or, something else entirely, then discussing these earlier on in your life is a positive step, as you will be better equipped to deal with life’s rollercoaster.
Our view on these subjects is that it is vital that people put their affairs in order sooner rather than later and understand that you are never too young to write a Will or have a Lasting Power of Attorney put in place, so long as you are 18 years of age and have the mental capacity to do so.
Last Will & Testament (Will)
A Will is a legal document that determines what should happen to your assets after you die. Without a Will, the distribution of your Estate will be determined by the laws of Intestacy, meaning people that you wish to benefit may not inherit. Equally, someone that you do not wish to receive a gift may benefit under the rules of Intestacy.A Will also can include guardianship, cremation/burial wishes, gifts of money or personal items to individuals/charities etc.
Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA)
A Lasting Power of Attorney is an important tool that enables you to appoint the people who you trust to act as your Attorneys. Your Attorneys are appointed to manage your affairs should you be unable to do so yourself, possibly as a result of losing mental capacity. There are two types of Lasting Powers of Attorney; one for property and financial affairs and one which deals with health and welfare. Without these safeguards in place, your loved ones could face a lengthy and costly application to the Court of Protection to be appointed as your Deputy.
If you would like to discuss putting your legal affairs in order, then please contact our highly experienced Private Client team today. It’s never too soon to protect yourself and your loved ones. Call us on 01484 821 500, text LAW to 67777 or email willsandprobate@ramsdens.co.uk.