MEPX
Chapter 8 of 10All chapters
  1. 1How legal systems work
  2. 2Criminal and civil
  3. 3Contracts
  4. 4Consumer protection
  5. 5Employment
  6. 6Property and tenancy
  7. 7Intellectual property
  8. 8Family and inheritance
  9. 9Rights when dealing with authority
  10. 10Resolving disputes

Chapter 8 of 10

Family and inheritance

Planning ahead.

Wills

A valid will names who inherits and who administers the estate. Dying intestate hands distribution to a statutory formula, which often surprises unmarried partners.

  • Formal requirements for signing and witnessing are strict.
  • Marriage or divorce can revoke or alter a will.

Powers of attorney

A lasting power of attorney lets someone you choose act for you if you lose capacity. It must be made while you still have capacity, which is why it is arranged early.