Legal Advice for Carers: Wills and LPA

Have you managed to keep any of your New Year’s resolutions? A new year provides the opportunity to reflect and set good intentions throughout 2024. You may be starting to declutter, taking charge of your finances, or starting to plan for the future.

The Importance of Writing a Will
The start of the year is an ideal time to take stock of your life and consider your long-term plans. Writing a will is a crucial part of this process, as it allows you to articulate your wishes regarding the distribution of your assets and the care of any dependents after your passing. By taking the time to create a will, you can ensure that your loved ones are provided for and that your wishes are respected.

As an unpaid carer, you may be deeply involved in the care and support of your loved one, making it essential to understand their wishes and ensure that they are legally documented. Talking about making a will allows you to have open conversations with your loved one about their preferences for their estate and possessions. By involving them in the process, you can ensure that their wishes are respected and that you are prepared for any eventuality.

Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA): Securing Decision-Making Authority
In addition to writing a will, unpaid carers should also consider the importance of obtaining advice around Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA). LPA is a legal document that allows an individual to appoint someone they trust to make decisions on their behalf, should they lose mental capacity in the future. As an unpaid carer, having an LPA in place can provide a sense of security and ensure that you can continue to make important decisions for your loved one if they become unable to do so themselves.

Seeking advice around LPA is crucial for unpaid carers, as it involves understanding the legal implications and responsibilities associated with being appointed as an attorney. By obtaining professional advice, you can gain clarity on the process and ensure that you are fully prepared to take on this role if necessary.

The Importance of Seeking Professional Advice
Navigating the legal aspects of being an unpaid carer, including writing a will and obtaining advice around LPA, can be complex, daunting and overwhelming. Seeking professional advice from solicitors or legal advisors who specialise in these matters is crucial. They can provide invaluable guidance, ensuring that you fully understand the legal implications and responsibilities involved in these processes.

Additionally, professional advice can help you address any specific concerns or complexities related to your situation, ensuring that the legal documents accurately reflect your loved one’s wishes and provide the necessary protections for both of you.

How to Choose a Solicitor?
Forward Carers (who manages the Birmingham Carers Hub service) has partnered with Wildings Solicitors bringing over 30 years of legal expertise to the Carer community in Birmingham and Walsall.

Chantell, Head of Service for Forward Carers, expressed excitement about the collaboration, stating, “We are thrilled to introduce Wildings Solicitors to our network. This partnership aligns perfectly with our commitment to enhance the lives of unpaid Carers. With Wildings’ legal expertise, particularly in Wills and Probate, we can offer our Carers and their families the peace of mind that comes with having affairs in order, at clear and manageable costs.”

This partnership highlights a shared dedication to community support, with Wildings Solicitors offering a fixed fee* structure to ensure affordable access to legal advice for unpaid carers.

Wildings Solicitors echoes this enthusiasm.  Neelam Afzal and Noor Khan, Partners at the firm remarked, “We’re excited to provide specialised legal services to carers. It’s a privilege to support those who dedicate themselves to caring for others, and we’re committed to delivering the highest standard of service to those who need it most.”

For additional details about the partnership or to learn more about the services available, please download and complete this form.

*Prices will be available soon.