Writing a will is one of the most important steps you can take to ensure your wishes are honoured and your loved ones are protected. In Newham, a vibrant and diverse borough in East London, the need for proper estate planning is more crucial than ever. Yet, many residents have not taken this essential step. According to a 2020 survey by Will Aid, only 44% of UK adults have a will, leaving over half the population at risk of their estate being distributed according to the laws of intestacy, which may not reflect their wishes. In Newham, with a population of over 350,000 (2021 census), this means more than 190,000 residents may not have a will, potentially leaving their families and assets unprotected.
Why having a will matters in Newham
Newham is a borough of contrasts, with a rich cultural tapestry and a mix of young families, property owners, and diverse communities. The absence of a will can lead to significant challenges, especially in a borough where family structures and financial situations vary widely. Without a will:
- Your spouse or civil partner may not inherit everything, as the estate could be shared with children or other relatives.
- Unmarried partners have no automatic rights, regardless of the length of the relationship.
- Stepchildren or other dependants may be excluded entirely.
- Your estate could face unnecessary inheritance tax liabilities.
A will allows you to:
- Control your estate: Decide who inherits your assets, from property and savings to personal belongings.
- Protect your loved ones: Appoint guardians for your children and provide for partners or dependants.
- Plan for taxes: Minimise inheritance tax through careful planning.
- Express your wishes: Include funeral arrangements to ease the burden on your family.
In a borough as dynamic as Newham, having a will is not just a legal formality, it’s a vital step to safeguard your legacy and ensure your loved ones are cared for.
Cancer Research UK will-writing service
At Marley Solicitors, we are proud to support Cancer Research UK in their mission to beat cancer. As one of the charity’s trusted legal partners, we offer Cancer Research UK’s Will-Writing Service. This service is straightforward and effortless to use, allowing anyone aged 18 or over to write or update a simple will, with Cancer Research UK covering the cost.
The charity hopes that in return, you will choose to leave a gift in your will for life-saving research. Most people do. In fact, a third of the money raised to fight cancer comes from gifts in wills. This statistic highlights the profound impact that leaving a legacy can have on advancing cancer research and saving lives.
If you want to book a Cancer Research UK Will-Writing appointment, call or email us; we will support you every step of the way. For further information, visit Cancer Research UK Legal Professionals Materials.
How Marley Solicitors can help
Marley Solicitors is a trusted law firm with extensive experience in will writing, probate matters and estate planning. Our team of expert solicitors offers a comprehensive service tailored to your needs, ensuring your wishes are clearly documented and legally sound. We provide:
- Personalised advice: Guidance on tax planning, trusts, and guardianship for children.
- Flexible options: Home visits, online consultations, and fixed fees to suit your schedule and budget.
- Expertise: Years of experience helping clients across the UK protect their legacies.
Whether you have a straightforward estate or more complex requirements, Marley Solicitors can simplify the process and give you confidence that your affairs are in order. We also offer the Cancer Research UK Will-Writing Service, providing a free and easy way to write or update your will while supporting a vital cause.
Take the next step
If you live in Newham and haven’t written a will, now is the time to act. Safeguarding your assets and ensuring your loved ones are cared for is a vital step that shouldn’t be delayed. Whether you choose to use the Cancer Research UK Will-Writing Service or work directly with our team, Marley Solicitors is here to help you secure your legacy.
Contact Marley Solicitors today to discuss your will writing needs and take control of your future. Let us guide you through the process with expertise and care, so you can have peace of mind knowing your wishes will be honoured.
