By Martin Oates, Partner
Will you get carried away this Christmas and propose under the mistletoe?
Or will you be looking round for the usual stocking fillers? I mean, what do you get for the man or woman who already has everything they need?
How about a Will? It’s not the most romantic of presents, or the most exciting, and their face won’t light up like it does on a certain chocolate advert, but think about it. Show them you care with a Will for Christmas…….. bring peace (of mind) to your relationship.
Many couples choose not to marry but just to live together instead. Without proper provision, they can find themselves penniless if their partner dies, causing huge distress to them at one of the most traumatic times of their lives.
People who live together are not automatically entitled to their partner’s estate however long their relationship. By law their partner’s next of kin are their children. The people entitled to administer their estate if there is no will, would include the parent of their children (the Ex!), and how awkward might that be?
If the assets pass to minors, the only course of action for the surviving partner is to seek legal advice with a view to making a claim for financial provision from the estate. This can lead to a breakdown in family relationships, increased costs and a huge amount of stress.
As well as a Will, you need to make sure you have an up to date nomination form with your company pension. Otherwise, they have to decide who gets what and it may not be what you expect.
So you can see that a Will would make a cracking Christmas present.
At Poole Townsend, we have a specialist department dedicated to helping you deal with these issues.
Our offices at Barrow, Ulverston, Dalton, Kendal, Grange and Milnthorpe offer you the convenience of an appointment local to you, or we can even visit you at home.
To give your partner the best Christmas present ever by making a Will, please call Kelly on (01229) 402241 who will be happy to make a FREE without obligation appointment for you to see one of our specialist lawyers. Mistletoe not included.
Have a Happy Christmas from the Probate Team at Poole Townsend! Follow us on twitter.com/pooletownsend
