Planning for the Future During Dying Matters Week
At Rogers & Norton, we understand that talking about death and dying can be uncomfortable – as we mark Dying Matters Week we want to help open the door to important conversations about planning ahead and making your wishes known.
Whether you’re thinking about the future for yourself or a loved one, taking time now to put key documents in place can provide clarity, comfort, and peace of mind when it’s needed most.
Why planning ahead makes a difference
It’s never too early to begin thinking about your future. Having a Will and Lasting Powers of Attorney in place ensures that your choices are respected, your family is supported, and your affairs are overseen according to your wishes.
The importance of a Will
Making a Will isn’t just about deciding who inherits what, it’s about making things easier for your loved ones during a challenging time. A well-drafted Will can:
- Ensure your assets are distributed according to your wishes
- Appoint guardians for your children
- Make provisions for vulnerable beneficiaries
- Reduce the potential for family disputes
- Provide clear instructions for your executors
If you don’t have a valid Will, your estate will be dealt with under the Rules of Intestacy, which may not reflect your wishes – particularly if you’re unmarried or in a blended family. Writing a Will gives you control and peace of mind.
We recommend reviewing your Will every five years or after major life events such as marriage, divorce, births or deaths in the family. Changes in your circumstances could affect how your Will works in practice and regular updates ensure it continues to reflect your current wishes.
Why Lasting Powers of Attorney are also important
While your Will takes effect after death, a Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA) protects you during your lifetime – if you become unable to make decisions due to illness, accident, or declining mental capacity.
There are two types of LPAs:
- Health & Welfare LPA – allows your attorney to make decisions about your medical treatment, daily care, and living arrangements. It can only be used if you lose mental capacity.
- Property & Financial Affairs LPA – enables your attorney to help manage your finances, from paying bills to managing property or investments. This type of LPA can be used as soon as it is registered, with your permission.
Without an LPA in place, your loved ones may face delays, added stress, and complex court procedures to gain the authority to act on your behalf.
How we can assist
Dying Matters Week is all about making it easier to talk about death and dying. At Rogers & Norton, our Private Client team is here to support you through these conversations with compassion, clarity, and expert legal guidance.
We help you take the first steps towards ensuring that your wishes are respected, your loved ones are supported and your affairs are in order.
If you’d like to learn more about making a Will or setting up an LPA, we offer a straightforward, personalised service to guide you through every step. You can also complete our online Will questionnaire to help us understand your circumstances and begin preparing your documents confidentially and efficiently.
Our friendly team of experienced solicitors offer a tailored approach to your legal requirements. From planning for the future to dealing with the death of a loved one, Rogers & Norton provide a sensitive and personalised service.
For more information, visit our Wills, Trusts and Probate services page, or contact us by calling 01603 666001 or emailing enquiries@rogers-norton.co.uk