A Valentine’s Day message from Jade Atkins-Valentine, our Senior Paralegal in our Wills and Probate department:

With a surname like Valentine, people often expect me to talk about all things love hearts and romance at this time of year (and whilst I often do😂), working in Max Engel’s Wills & Probate Department has taught me that love can show up in many different ways – planning, protection and peace of mind being one of them.🩵

A Will – Certainty Is an Act of Love:
Without a Will, the law decides who inherits your estate under strict intestacy laws. That can lead to outcomes that sometimes surprise and distress families, particularly unmarried couples, and blended families. A clear Will ensures your wishes are followed, protects loved ones and vulnerable beneficiaries, appoints trusted executors and reduces delays and disputes.

Lasting Powers of Attorney – Protection Whilst You Are Alive:
Estate planning is not just about what happens after your death. It is also about what happens if you cannot make decisions yourself. Lasting Powers of Attorney allow you to choose who can manage your finances and make health and care decisions. Without them, loved ones may face time-consuming and costly court applications at an already difficult time.

Probate – When Planning Really Counts:
Probate is often dealt with during periods of grief. Good estate planning makes the process clearer, quicker, and far less stressful for those left behind.
When plans are in place, your wishes are followed, executors have clarity and authority, and administration is more efficient.

Love That Lasts:
Flowers fade, chocolates disappear (especially around chocolate lovers like me 🍫), but good estate planning lasts. This Valentine’s Day, it’s worth asking one simple question: have I done everything I can to protect the people I love?

Making a Will and putting Lasting Powers of Attorney in place do not have to be daunting. At Max Engel, we pride ourselves on providing clear, practical advice with empathy and understanding. If you think now is the time to consider making/reviewing a Will or Lasting Powers of Attorney, our team is always happy to assist.

Contact Jade here or call her on 01604 887455.