With news this week that over half of the UK population does not have a valid will in place, a local solicitor is urging Shropshire residents of the importance of ensuring that their affairs are fully in order.

“It’s a worrying statistic that more than 50% of individuals are putting their assets, and loved ones, at risk simply from not having a valid will drawn up,” Pauline Davies of PCB Solicitors said.

“Where a person dies and they have no will, or where their will is invalid, it is the legal system which decides who should inherit their assets, and not the individual’s closest family members as many believe.  This means that those who the individual intended to benefit from their death could ultimately be at very real risk of losing out.

“Having an up-to-date will is always important to ensure that an individual’s final wishes are satisfied, but it is particularly vital for those who aren’t married or in a civil partnership, and of course where children are concerned.  Any surviving partner who isn’t legally joined to the deceased has no automatic right to inherit, and neither too do dependent children.”

The latest figures coincide with an announcement by the Law Commission that from next month they are going to be undertaking a comprehensive three year review of the law relating to wills to take account of recent changes and advancements in social norms, technology and medicine. The reforms will aim to reduce the number of wills being challenged and to make it easier to rectify mistakes after a person’s death. They will also address the formalities required for a valid will, and the matter of mutual wills, with full recommendations expected in 2019.

“I would urge anyone who does not have a valid will in place and who wants to ensure that those they love are looked after and protected after their passing to get in touch with a member of our dedicated team to find out more.” Pauline concluded.

PCB Solicitors LLP is a modern partnership, with offices in Shrewsbury, Broseley, Church Stretton, Craven Arms, Knighton, Ludlow, Telford, and Worcester. While they have origins back to 1860, the firm is forward-looking and offers a full range of legal advice for both individuals and businesses, including property, family advice and childcare matters, wills, trusts, probate and estate planning, accident and personal injury, litigation, criminal law and corporate and business law.

For further information about PCB Solicitors’ complete range of legal services, please contact the Shrewsbury Head office on 01743 248148 or visit the website www.pcblaw.co.uk.