New Year, peace of mind: Why a legal health check matters
The New Year is often a time for fresh starts – from fitness goals to lifestyle resolutions. But while many of us focus on health and habits, it’s also the perfect moment to review your legal affairs. At Attwaters Solicitors, we encourage families to begin 2026 with a legal health check – a simple step that can bring lasting peace of mind.
Stay current, stay protected
A legal health check ensures your plans reflect your current circumstances and any recent life changes. By taking a proactive approach, you not only clearly communicate your wishes to your family but also put essential safeguards in place.
Life changes, and so should your legal documents. A Will, for example, should be reviewed regularly to make sure it still meets your needs and protects those you care about most.
Don’t leave it to chance
Research from The Association of Lifetime Lawyers shows over half of UK adults over 30 either don’t have a Will or have one that needs updating. The research also found that nearly one in ten UK adults have started making a Will but haven’t completed it, leaving their estate and loved ones at risk.
It’s best practice to review your Will every five years, or sooner if you experience a major life event, such as:
- Marriage or entering a Civil Partnership
- Divorce
- The birth of a child
- The loss of a loved one
- Matters related to gender recognition.
For parents, a legal Will is especially important. Without one, decisions about guardianship for children may be left to the courts – and may not reflect your personal wishes.
Planning ahead
Another important consideration is setting up a Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA). This is an important step for every adult, as we can never predict what the future may hold. An LPA allows someone you trust to make legal decisions on your behalf if you become unable to do so.
You can nominate:
- A Property and Financial Affairs LPA
- A Health and Welfare LPA.
It’s also wise to plan for the unexpected. Creating a secure emergency document containing essential contact details and instructions for accessing important accounts – such as online banking – can be invaluable. Recording your funeral wishes can also help to ease the emotional burden on your loved ones during an already difficult time.
Here to help
A legal health check doesn’t have to be complicated. Speaking with an experienced legal professional ensures your documents are thorough, valid, and truly reflect your intentions.
Start the New Year with confidence – let us help you get your affairs in order.
Get in touch with our team on enquiries@attwaters.co.uk or 0330 221 8855 to learn more about how we can help you.
