Speaker-Jane Hanson, Co-Op Legal Services

Navigating the legal intricacies of estate planning can be a daunting prospect for many, but the Co-op estate planning team is dedicated to demystifying the process. They believe in providing accessible legal information and guidance, breaking down the barriers commonly associated with traditional law firms. As part of their community outreach, they offer engaging talks to groups, delivering valuable insights on crucial legal issues we all may face as we age.

The talk covers a range of essential topics:

1. Protecting Your Home and Savings:
   One of the primary concerns as individuals age is ensuring their hard-earned assets benefit their loved ones. This talk will shed light on how care fees can impact this process and provide practical steps to safeguard your estate, ensuring it goes to the people you cherish the most.
2. Inheritance Tax:
   As the saying goes, “Only two things in life are certain… death and taxes.” While they can’t help with the former, they can certainly help demystify Inheritance Tax. Their expert will explain its impact and share simple steps to potentially reduce the burden on your beneficiaries.
3. ‘Sideways Disinheritance’ and Blended Families:
   The complexities of remarriage and blended families can unintentionally lead to situations where certain family members inherit nothing. The talk will outline the importance of taking proactive steps to ensure your chosen beneficiaries receive what you intend, addressing the potential pitfalls of ‘sideways disinheritance.’
4. Lasting Powers of Attorney:
   Contemplating a time when you may be unable to make decisions for yourself due to illness, accidents, or old age is never easy. However, planning ahead by establishing Lasting Powers of Attorney can alleviate the burden on your family and reduce stress and costs during challenging times.

We have had this subject before but has been requested to stay on our schedule. Past audiences have praised the talk for being both enjoyable and jargon-free, and we aim to bring the same experience to you.

(last updated 27/1/26)