Nadia (Lawyer Citizens Advice Bureau) and host Dr Barry Mendelawitz
Member Barry Mendelawitz introduced our guest speaker Nadia from Citizens Advice Bureau. Barry was well suited to the role of host as he and his wife Margaret have volunteered at the Citizens Advice Bureau office for the last 22 years. Currently they are involved in a mediation position, mostly involving couples’ relationship breakdowns.
CAB is a low-cost legal advice service on a wide range of issues but Nadia, who is a lawyer, chose to speak to us about the importance of preparing your will. Nadia stressed the importance of having all the legal documentation correct and for the will to be completed without errors, because this will lead to many problems and delays, which affect the family and legal processing and dissemination of a person’s last wishes.
Nadia told us that a will must be signed by two witnesses at the same time, who cannot be beneficiaries or spouses, and to appoint an executor to manage the will. Ensure that there will be enough money before bequests to cover debts.
Don’t strike through any wording which is incorrect, but write out the will again, and put the will away in a safe place, ensuring that your executor or family know where to find it. Destroy any old wills you have made before. Be extra careful if there are any divorces or remarriages in the mix, because every will can be challenged.
If you don’t have a will and die intestate, the State Administration Tribunal will administer the will, resulting in long delays and possible family breakdowns due to distribution of assets.
Probate is always required for property and assets. It is also advisable to have to hand a signed Power of Attorney form, Enduring Power of Attorney, a Landgate form and an Advanced Health Directive.
Owing to the legal complexity of a will, and to ensure that your wishes are met, it is best to meet with a reputable lawyer, or contact the CAB.
Barry thanked Nadia for such a comprehensive presentation and encouraged us to keep a close watch on our wills as family dynamics can change and don’t scribble your last wishes on the back of an envelope!