With divorce rates on the rise nationwide, it is becoming increasingly more likely that people will not remain with their original partner.
For those entering into a new relationship, especially with children from a previous partnership, you will need to be aware of the issues surrounding your situation should you not have a Will.
When one or both parties already have children, the term blended families is used and can be a very challenging affair should either parent not leave their wishes in place.
Our Private Client Associate Rachel Hanson spoke to the Telegraph & Argus on the legal pitfalls these families face.
Rachel said: “Without a Will, and dependent upon the value of their estate, their estate will pass first to their spouse or civil partner, then to the children of that spouse or civil partner, potentially leaving their other children from a previous relationship with nothing.
“Nobody wants to be in these positions. That is why it should be a priority to discuss your estate with a qualified legal expert and have them draw up a Will which reflects your choices.”
During her eleven years at Walker Foster Solicitors, she has worked with parents of blended families throughout Yorkshire to ensure their wishes are carried out.
Speaking to a legal professional and planning ahead can save your family a huge amount of distress and ensure no one is unfairly left out.
For more information on wills for blended families, visit our Wills, Probate & Lasting Powers of Attorney page or contact Rachel Hanson who is based at our Ilkley office on 01943 609969.
We also have experienced staff at our Skipton, Barnoldswick and Silsden office, who are more than capable of dealing with your will query.
To read the T&A article in full, click here.
When a parent’s estate is not divided equally, or when sibling disputes arise over inheritance rights, emotions can run high, and challenging a Will can become a complex and sensitive issue. Tensions between family members can escalate, leading to legal challenges that may strain relationships and result in prolonged court proceedings.
When discussing lasting powers of attorney (LPAs) with clients, usually their immediate concern is appointing an attorney to deal with their personal affairs. But this overlooks another key question: who would run your business if you were ill, or had an accident and lost capacity?
In this blog, Walker Foster’s Wills and Probate Executive Cay Schofield shares her insights into the various planning arrangements, and how each of them can help to provide clarity and security for you and your family.
When clients come to us to discuss their Wills, they often express a common concern: “How can I avoid the need for a Grant of Probate? I want to make things easier for my family.”
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