Planning for the future is one of the most responsible steps you can take to protect your loved ones and ensure your wishes are followed. Two of the most important legal documents you can put in place are a Will and a Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA). At GLP Solicitors, we help individuals and families across the UK create legally sound, clearly drafted documents that offer peace of mind for the years ahead.
Below, we explain why Wills and LPAs matter, how they work, and the benefits of putting them in place sooner rather than later.
What is a Will?
A Will is a legal document that sets out what should happen to your money, property, possessions and children after you die. Without a valid Will, your estate will be distributed according to UK intestacy rules which may not reflect your wishes or support the people you care about most.
Why having a Will is essential
- Avoid intestacy: Without a Will, your estate may not go to your partner, stepchildren or chosen beneficiaries.
- Protect your children: You can appoint guardians for children under 18.
- Reduce stress for your family: Clear instructions minimise confusion and conflict.
- Manage your estate efficiently: You choose your executors, ensuring your estate is handled by someone you trust.
- Tax efficiency: A well-drafted Will can help reduce Inheritance Tax liabilities.
What happens if you die without a Will (Intestacy)?
Under UK intestacy laws:
- Unmarried partners cannot inherit automatically.
- Children may inherit the estate in shares, which may not align with your intentions.
- Complex estates can lead to delays, disputes and additional legal costs.
Creating a Will avoids these issues and gives you control over your legacy.
What is a Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA)?
A Lasting Power of Attorney allows you to appoint trusted people, known as attorneys, to make decisions on your behalf if you lose mental capacity or need support with managing your affairs.
There are two types of LPAs in the UK:
1. Health and Welfare LPA
Covers decisions about:
- Medical treatment
- Daily care
- Where you live
- Life-sustaining treatment
This can only be used when you’re unable to make decisions yourself.
2. Property and Financial Affairs LPA
Covers decisions about:
- Paying bills
- Managing bank accounts
- Selling or managing property
- Handling pensions and investments
This can be used with your consent while you still have capacity, or by your attorneys if you lose capacity.
Why LPAs are just as important as Wills
Many people assume LPAs are only for the elderly, but unexpected illness, accidents or progressive conditions can affect anyone. If you lose capacity without an LPA, your loved ones may need to apply to the Court of Protection which is costly, slow and stressful.
Benefits of having an LPA
- You stay in control by choosing who makes decisions for you.
- Avoids unnecessary court applications if you lose capacity.
- Protects your financial stability by ensuring bills and property are managed promptly.
- Gives families clarity on your healthcare preferences.
How GLP Solicitors can help
At GLP Solicitors, we offer a friendly, professional and straightforward service for clients across the UK. We help you:
For Wills
- Draft a clear, legally robust Will tailored to your circumstances.
- Appoint guardians for children.
- Plan your estate tax-efficiently.
- Set up trusts where appropriate.
For LPAs
- Advise you on choosing suitable attorneys.
- Draft and register Health & Welfare and Property & Financial Affairs LPAs.
- Ensure all documents meet strict legal requirements.
- Provide guidance throughout the registration process.
Our experienced team ensures that every document reflects your wishes and complies with the relevant UK legislation.
Why choose GLP Solicitors?
- Specialist legal expertise in Wills, Probate and LPAs
- Clear and transparent pricing
- Friendly, local solicitors with nationwide support
- Decades of experience helping families protect their future
- Modern, accessible service in person or remote
Ready to protect your future?
Putting a Will or LPA in place is one of the most thoughtful steps you can take for your loved ones. GLP Solicitors is here to make the process simple, stress-free and fully tailored to your needs.
Contact GLP Solicitors today to arrange an appointment or find out more about our Wills and LPA services.