The important thing to remember is that you cannot set up or prepare power of attorney on someone else’s behalf. When you prepare a lasting power of attorney, you are named the ‘donor’. This refers to the fact that you are giving the power to make decisions on your behalf to someone else, i.e. the attorney/ attorneys. It is therefore extremely important that you begin this process while you still have sufficient capacity to make the relevant decisions in this matter. Power of attorney is not … [Read more...]
Why are lasting powers of attorney so important?
Lasting powers of attorney are different to a will. A will comes into effect once a person dies and the executors named in the will obtain a Grant of Probate in order to look after the deceased person’s estate. A lasting power of attorney, however, works whilst a person is still alive but is unable to make decisions for themselves (or if they want a person to manage their property and financial affairs whilst they have capacity but require help). This could happen for a number of reasons, … [Read more...]
What happens to my will after marriage or divorce?
Preparing a new will often stays at the bottom of a long list of ‘things to do’. Clients regularly tell us that preparing a new will turned out to be less difficult and time-consuming than expected. It is always clear to see the relief and peace of mind on our clients’ faces when they finally tick it off their list. That’s the main task done for now but it is important not to forget to keep your will updated if you get married or your circumstances change. After a will has been properly … [Read more...]
What happens if you die without making a Will?
When a person dies without leaving a valid will, their estate (which is your money, possessions and property) must be shared out according to certain rules. This established provision is known as the ‘rules of intestacy’. A person who dies without a valid Will is known to have died intestate. The people who can inherit under the rules of intestacy are married or civil partners and some other close relatives such as children and grandchildren. However, the order in which blood relatives have a … [Read more...]
We are delighted to welcome Jobeth Copping-Barrett as the new Head of the Private Client Department
"I joined Sinclair Law Solicitors in October 2022, as a private client solicitor and head of the private client team. I was keen to join the firm from the moment I heard of the vacancy. Specialising in family law means that the firm is dedicated to providing a caring, personal and attentive service for clients during emotional and stressful times. Developing a private client department alongside an established and leading family team seems to me, to make perfect sense. The firm has a history … [Read more...]