Moving in with a partner, getting married or becoming a parent are exciting times. But what happens when things go wrong?
Life throws many curveballs which can leave us feeling overwhelmed and unsure about the future. Lawyers are great with helping to resolve problems, but this inevitably comes at a cost, and cases which cannot be resolved by agreement can lead to long and stressful legal processes.
Planning for the future not only makes things easier and more amicable should the worst happen, but it also provides security, certainty and peace of mind.
It is of the utmost importance that any legal documents are prepared correctly to ensure that they will be effective and stand up to scrutiny.
Shentons offer a wide range of legal services. Our Property, Family and Wills and Probate departments can help you take the right steps to protect your future.
Buying PropertyProperty can be purchased jointly by partners, family members or even friends. Sometimes, unequal financial contributions are made, and consideration should be given as to how the property is legally held to reflect this. A Declaration of Trust can be entered into to set out what stake each party has in the property and what should happen if the property is sold. |
Moving in TogetherUnmarried couples who live together can protect their assets with a Cohabitation Agreement. In cases where a property is owned by one party, it may be possible for the other party to gain a financial interest if, for example, they make payments towards the mortgage or home improvements. This agreement can set out the intentions of the parties and what the financial and child arrangements should be in the event of separation. |
Getting MarriedA Pre-Nuptial Agreement, entered into before marriage can ringfence assets owned prior to the relationship and set out how assets should be divided in the case of divorce. It can also detail how the parties intend to co-parent any children. A Post-Nuptial Agreement is similar but is entered into after the marriage has taken place. Such agreements are not strictly binding but are recognised by the court if they have been entered into correctly. |
PetsOver 50% of UK households own pets and in law, these are classed as chattels (personal property). A Pet-Nup can set out the intended living arrangements for pets in the event of separation or divorce. |
WillsMaking a Will ensures that your wishes are followed when you die and can prevent disagreements between grieving family members. As well as setting out how any money and possessions are to be distributed upon death, a Will can include details of who you would like to take care of any children. It is important to update your Will following significant events such as marriage or divorce as these can affect your legal position. |
Losing CapacityA Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA) allows you to appoint someone you trust to make decisions for you about your care and welfare and/or property and financial matters. There is flexibility for you decide whether you want to give your attorney the ability to manage all of your affairs, or to only allow them to make certain decisions. |
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