Two-thirds leaving their inheritance to chance claims region’s leading law firm
A senior Coalville legal expert has warned the community that the vast majority of people risk causing turmoil for their loved ones, by failing to make Wills
Peter Chadwick, a partner at QualitySolicitors Mander Cruickshank said only a third of people make a Will before they die, despite the need for Wills being greater than ever.
“The issue is two-fold, first making a Will is seldom urgent and therefore tends to be put off, and secondly there is reluctance by many people to face the uncomfortable fact that they are not going to be here for ever,” he said.
He warned that every year many thousands across the East Midlands die without a Will , known as dying intestate, and where that happens there are strict rules dating back to 1925, when family structures were less complicated than today.
“The problem is that the world is very different now,” said Mr Chadwick, whose practice has offices in Coalville and Hinckley. “It is common these days for couples to live together and perhaps have children without marrying. There may be offspring from other relationships too and perhaps one of the parties may even still be legally married to someone else. It’s very complex.”
“We need people to help their loved ones at what will be one of the most traumatic times in their lives,” he added. “The last thing loved ones need when they are grieving is a family falling out.”
He warned too that the public need to realise they have very little protection if a poorly drafted Will is drawn up.
“Unfortunately, there are many cheap Wills online, or offered by non-regulated providers who may not carry any insurance or may no longer be in business by the time a problem with a Will comes to light,” he said.
“The sums involved, the importance of the issue, and the cost of peace of mind means using a traditional firm of solicitors is still the only sensible option. You will be protected by professional indemnity insurance in the unlikely problem with a solicitor-drawn Will,” he added.
“It is easy to do, and there is really not any excuse for not doing it,” he said. “Pick up the phone and arrange an appointment.”
Anyone wishing to find out more should call QualitySolicitors Mander Cruickshank on 01530 510 666.
Any queries call Nolan PR on 01564 822861/ 07505 133302
