How to Protect Your Loved Ones: Wills, LPAs & Estate Planning in Uncertain Times

Why You Should Review Your Will

Life moves quickly. Marriage, divorce, children, property purchases, and even retirement can all affect how your estate should be divided. If your will hasn’t been reviewed in the last few years, it may no longer reflect your current wishes or family situation.

Without a valid will, your estate could be divided under the laws of intestacy, which may not reflect what you would have wanted. For example, unmarried partners and stepchildren have no automatic rights to inherit. A properly drafted and updated will ensures your assets go exactly where you intend.

Why a Lasting Power of Attorney Is Just as Important

Many people assume that their spouse or family can automatically make decisions for them if they become ill or lose capacity but that’s not the case. Without a Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA) in place, your loved ones would need to apply to the Court of Protection for a deputyship order.

This process can take many months, involves legal fees, and may limit what decisions can be made. More importantly, the person appointed by the court might not be the one you would have chosen.

An LPA gives you control and peace of mind. You decide who you trust to manage your financial affairs, property, health, and welfare if you ever can’t do so yourself. There are two types:

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●  Property and Financial Affairs LPA – covers money, bills, investments, and property decisions.

●  Health and Welfare LPA – covers medical treatment, living arrangements, and personal care.


Having both ensures every aspect of your life can be managed smoothly by the people you trust most.

Real-Life Scenarios Where LPAs Make a Difference

Consider what could happen if you lost capacity suddenly after an accident or illness. Without an LPA, your family may be unable to access your bank accounts, pay your bills, or make urgent healthcare decisions.

For older individuals, LPAs can prevent unnecessary stress for adult children who might otherwise have to navigate the complex Court of Protection system. And for business owners, a financial LPA can ensure the continuity of your company’s operations if you’re temporarily unable to manage them yourself.

Planning Early Brings Long-Term Peace of Mind

Estate planning isn’t something to leave until later in life. Setting up a will and LPAs now gives your family clarity, protects your assets, and reduces the emotional and financial burden at a difficult time. These arrangements are easy to put in place with professional advice and, once done, they provide lasting reassurance.

Free Downloadable Guide: How to Protect Your Family with a Lasting Power of Attorney

To help clients and their families understand the process, we’ve created a free downloadable guide: “How to Protect Your Family with a Lasting Power of Attorney.”

This guide explains the common misconceptions when it comes to LPAs and explains your next steps should you wish to create one. You can download your free copy directly from our website.

To discuss your will or set up a Lasting Power of Attorney, contact our experienced private client team at Marsons Solicitors.

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