The new year brings a fresh start... a time to take stock, set goals, and get organised. And while you're making resolutions to improve your health or finances, it’s worth asking one important question: Does your Will still reflect your wishes? The New Year always brings a sense of renewal, a time to reset, reflect, and re-evaluate what matters most. So while you're thinking about health goals, financial resolutions, or clearing out the garage, there’s one more thing worth re

For many of us, December is the one time of year when generations of the family are gathered in the same place. Grandparents, parents, children, sometimes even great-grandchildren, all under one roof, sharing food, stories, and love. But once the crackers are pulled and the turkey’s eaten, there’s a powerful opportunity: to talk about the things that matter most. The truth is, estate planning often gets pushed to the bottom of the list. It feels awkward, even morbid. But the

At this time of year, when families come together, we often notice things we’ve missed during the rest of the year. Perhaps Mum’s been getting more forgetful. Maybe Dad looks thinner than you remembered. You might have noticed unopened post, unpaid bills, or increasing signs of frailty. These are the moments when the seed of a question gets planted: “What if they can’t manage on their own much longer?” Christmas has a way of gently shining a light on the things we often push

When we think of Christmas gifts, we tend to imagine the ones we wrap...a bottle of wine, a new gadget, or something thoughtful under the tree. But the gifts that often mean the most aren’t always the ones you can tie with a bow. This time of year, more than any other, reminds us of the people we love. It’s a season for family, for connection, and for gratitude. And that makes it the perfect moment to reflect on what we leave behind; not in terms of possessions, but in terms

Every year, many families face avoidable stress because someone put off making a Will or organising their Lasting Powers of Attorney. No one intends to leave a mess behind, but life gets busy. People assume there will be more time. Then something unexpected happens. Doing nothing has a cost. Not only a financial cost, but a practical and emotional cost that falls on the people who care about you most. When someone dies without a Will If you die without a Will, the law decides

Most people create a Will to make life easier for the people they care about. They want clarity, fairness and peace of mind. But what happens if someone disputes your Will after your death? It is more common than you might think. Modern families are complex, blended and sometimes strained. Disagreements can surface at exactly the moment when those left behind are grieving and vulnerable. Understanding the risks, and knowing how to reduce them, is one of the most important par

For most families, the home is more than bricks and mortar. It is the place where children grew up, where memories were made, and where the people you love feel safe. That is why one of the most common questions in estate planning is very simple. "What actually happens to the family home when someone dies?" Many people assume the answer is automatic. In reality, what happens next depends on two things. How you own the property, and what your Will or lack of a Will says. How t

At this time of year, our thoughts naturally turn to giving...finding the perfect presents, spending time with family, and making the people we love feel appreciated. Among all the gifts you wrap, there’s one that can’t be bought in a shop and doesn’t come with a ribbon...peace of mind. This Christmas, consider giving your family something truly lasting: a clear, thoughtful estate plan that protects them for years to come. Why Christmas Is the Perfect Time to Reflect For many

For most people, talking about death,especially your own, is uncomfortable. But when it comes to funerals, even a few notes can bring enormous comfort and clarity to those left behind. Why Funeral Wishes Matter After a death, family members are often left asking: Would they have wanted burial or cremation? Did they want a religious service — or none at all? What kind of music, readings, or tone would feel right? Did they want something quiet, or something joyful? Without guid

Making a Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA) is one of the most important steps you can take to protect your future. Making an LPA not just about the paperwork. It’s about the people  you trust to make decisions if you no longer can. And choosing the right attorneys matters. What Does an Attorney Actually Do? Depending on the type of LPA, your attorneys may be responsible for: Property & Financial Affairs:  managing bank accounts, paying bills, overseeing investments, even sellin

We live more of our lives online than ever before — but few people stop to consider what happens to their digital world when they die....

After years of working with clients on their Wills and estate planning, I’ve developed a good eye for spotting where plans might be going...

Who Would Raise Your Children If You Couldn't? No parent wants to imagine a world where their children grow up without them. But as hard...

What You Don’t Know Can Hurt Your Family It’s tempting to think that a Will is just a form to fill in. There are countless DIY kits and...

Many people think of a Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA) as something only needed in old age. The truth is that an LPA is valuable at any...

We all like to think we have plenty of time. Time to make decisions. Time to get organised. Time to get around to writing that Will. But...

Running a business takes energy, focus, and dedication. But while you're busy building your success, it's easy to overlook what would...

The Hidden Threat to Your Family’s Inheritance Most people assume that when they pass away, everything they own will eventually make its...

Avoiding family conflict through clear, careful planning. When Wills Lead to Arguments, Everyone Loses More families than ever are...

Why LPAs are essential for protecting your interests during your lifetime. What Happens If You Can’t Make Decisions Yourself? Estate...