Certainty in times of uncertainty. Are your affairs are in order?
31st March 2020 by Deborah Pearce
As we have heard so often over the last few days, if not weeks, we are now living in unprecedented times. Never, for so long as most of us can remember, have we encountered such uncertain and unsettling times with Coronavirus. None of us could have been prepared for its devastating impact on our daily living habits let alone the extreme worry over the health and welfare of our loved ones.
It is of course difficult to tear our minds away from the daily obstacles we face but, despite the uncertainty, now is the most appropriate time to consider whether we need to put our affairs in order.
So many people have failed to make Wills to take account of their wishes (including funeral wishes) if they die and equally do not have Lasting Powers of Attorney to enable someone to either:-
- manage your financial/property affairs owing to your physical or mental incapacity and/or
- make health and care decisions when you are mentally unable to do so.
Until now, most of us thought these were unimportant and could wait until that “rainy day” little realising that the rainy day may be ever nearer.
With recent events, it is now even more important to ensure that you have a Will and any Powers of Attorney so that you have peace of mind knowing that, by your Will, your assets will pass to those you wish to provide for and, by any Powers of Attorney, your affairs both financial and healthwise, can be managed by those you trust.
Laceys’ team of private client lawyers remain working from home to help you through these worries so if you wish any help or advice please do not hesitate to contact us. Please use the email addresses and direct telephone numbers listed against each of our lawyers on the Wills or Powers of Attorney pages of this website.
Deborah Pearce
Senior Associate — Private Client
Direct dial: 01202 377820
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“Mrs Pearce helped me whilst going through my grief and explained everything in simple language and with sympathy and understanding.”
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“Making a Will was not on the top of my "to do" list as I found the thought of it fairly daunting. But when I eventually contacted Laceys Solicitors the whole process from beginning to end was so easy. I felt totally supported by Deborah Pearce and was grateful for her professionalism, kindness and efficiency. The whole atmosphere at Laceys is very caring, friendly and comfortable. I highly recommend them.”
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“Mrs Pearce was always helpful, pleasant to deal with and professional.”
Deborah is a Chartered Legal Executive who has worked in the Private Client department at Laceys for over 18 years.
Deborahs journey to Laceys started in 1985 when she qualified as a FILEX. She then undertook her Associateship in Taunton and completed her Fellowship in Poole. Aside from a couple of years in Gibraltar, Deborah then gained valuable experience working for various local firms in their private client departments before joining Laceys in 2000.
She specialises in all areas of private client work, wills, powers of attorney, tax planning, Court of Protection, administration of estates, NHS Continuing Care, welfare benefits and all issues related to the elderly and infirm. She finds this area of law quite holistic – it is not just a matter of applying rules and regulations but organising a client’s affairs in such a way that they are made easier and clearer during what can be a very emotional and upsetting time. Her work requires a very good and patient listening ear, bedside manner and sometimes a sense of humour but still achieving the client’s objectives on time.
When time permits she enjoys reading, cooking and relaxing by the Christchurch River but only when the sun shines! Travelling is a great hobby but there is never enough time to visit all. She has four stepchildren, four grandchildren plus a nephew and niece who help keep her busy at home!
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