When putting together your “must do” list for 2012 please make sure these are at the top

1. Making a Will

Everyone should make a Will but it is especially important if

• you cohabit with another person but are not married to them or not in a civil partnership with them
• you have children as you can specify within your Will who should care for them in the event of your death
• you have dependents of any age who may not be able to care for themselves in the event of your death
• you are marrying for a second time and have children from a previous relationship

If you do not make a Will it could mean that your estate goes to someone you would not wish to receive it

2. Granting Power of Attorney

A Lasting Power of Attorney allows you to plan ahead by choosing someone you trust to make decisions on your behalf if you are ever unable to do so yourself. These decisions can cover either your financial affairs, your health and welfare or both.

Your attorney could

• assist you in dealing with your bank, paying your bills or collecting your pension
• assist in selling your property if you need to live in a care home as you get older
• make choices, if you have lost mental capacity, about which care home you live in and on any medical treatment you may need

If you do not have an attorney and become mentally incapable a court may order that someone you would not yourself choose has control of your finances and personal welfare

ACT NOW – IT COULD BE THE BEST PRESENT YOU GIVE YOUR FAMILY ALL YEAR

Disclaimer: Articles posted do not constitute legal advice and should not be relied upon as such.