As we head into 2026, many of us are thinking about healthier habits and fresh starts. It’s the time of year for resolutions, but one resolution often overlooked is getting your legal affairs in order.
At Howard & Over, we believe there’s no better time than the new year to carry out a legal health check, especially for you and your family. A legal review gives you clarity, confidence and reassurance that your plans are right for your life right now.
Why a Legal Health Check Is a Great New Year Goal
Life changes, and so should your legal documents.
Whether it’s a new job, growing family, a bereavement or a change in your financial situation, major life events can mean your existing Will or legal arrangements are out of date without you even realising. Regularly reviewing your legal documents means they reflect your current wishes and circumstances.
According to recent research from The Association of Lifetime Lawyers, more than half of UK adults over 30 either don’t have a Will or have one that needs updating. Shockingly, nearly one in ten people have started making a Will but never finished it, leaving their estate and loved ones at risk.
We recommend reviewing your Will every five years or whenever there’s a significant change in your life – such as marriage, divorce, the arrival of children, or the loss of a loved one.
Updating your Will isn’t just about distribution of assets, it’s about peace of mind, protection and clarity.
Guardianship and Your Children
An up-to-date Will allows you to nominate trusted guardians for your children, ensuring that your wishes are clearly set out. Without this clarity, decisions about guardianship may be left to the courts, which may not reflect what you would have chosen.
Setting this out in advance provides reassurance and certainty for you and your family at what could be a very difficult time.
Lasting Powers of Attorney
Another essential document is a Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA). An LPA allows someone you trust to make decisions on your behalf if you become unable to do so, whether that’s about finances or health and care. Without one, your loved ones may need to go to court to be appointed as your deputy. This is a stressful and costly process that can take months.
There are two kinds of LPA:
- Property & Financial Affairs LPA – for money and property decisions.
- Health & Welfare LPA – for care and medical decisions.
Setting up both gives you a fuller layer of protection for the future.
Practical Emergency Essentials
Alongside your will and LPAs, it’s sensible to have a go-to document with essential information: key contacts, account details, insurance, and so on. You might also consider recording your funeral wishes so that family members are not left guessing at a difficult time.
Why Professional Legal Advice Matters
Legal planning isn’t always straightforward – especially if your situation isn’t simple. Speaking to an experienced solicitor means your documents are drafted correctly and reflect your intentions. At Howard & Over, we take the time to explain everything clearly, without legal jargon, and help you decide what’s right for you.
It’s a simple step that can make a big difference, and it’s one you can tick off early in 2026.
If you’d like help with updating your Will, creating Lasting Powers of Attorney, or reviewing your estate plan, our team are here to talk through your options and support you with confidence.