04 June 2025
While these families bring great joy, they also come with unique legal and financial planning challenges. At AB Solicitors, we understand that every family is different. When it comes to planning for your future, especially in a blended family, a “one-size-fits-all” approach simply won’t work. Without clear legal documents in place, your wishes might not be carried out in the way you intend.
Here are some key legal considerations to think about when planning for your blended family's future:
1. Wills That Reflect Your Family’s Needs
If you pass away without a will, the law dictates who inherits your estate and it might not be who you expect. For example, if you're married or in a civil partnership, your partner could inherit everything, leaving children from a previous relationship with nothing. Stepchildren also aren’t legally entitled to inherit unless named in a will.
A professionally drafted will is the only way to make sure your estate is divided according to your wishes, and that everyone who matters to you is considered.
2. Trusts to Balance Everyone’s Interests
In blended families, setting up a will trust, such as a life interest trust can provide crucial peace of mind. These trusts can allow your spouse, civil partner, or cohabiting partner to live in the family home or receive income from your assets, while safeguarding the capital for your children in the future.
Trusts can be especially helpful in preventing disputes, and they’re essential when including a cohabiting partner, who does not automatically receive the same inheritance tax exemptions as a spouse or civil partner.
3. Preventing Conflict with Clear Legal Planning
Inheritances can become flashpoints in complex families. By taking the time to set out your wishes clearly in legally binding documents, you reduce the risk of future disputes. It’s not about making everyone happy, it’s about making thoughtful, informed decisions that stand up to scrutiny.
4. Lasting Powers of Attorney (LPA)
What if you’re no longer able to make decisions about your finances or health? A Lasting Power of Attorney allows someone you trust to step in. In blended families, where relationships can be sensitive, it’s especially important to choose attorneys carefully and think through the implications for all involved.
5. Start the Conversation
While you don’t need agreement from every family member, having open conversations about your plans can prevent misunderstandings and ease tensions later. These discussions can be difficult, but they’re often well worth having.
Get Expert Support from AB Solicitors
Blended families bring joy and complexity. With the right legal guidance, your plans can be both clear and compassionate. We provide tailored advice to help you protect your loved ones and secure peace of mind. Call us on 01202 527008 or send us message online: Contact Us AB Solicitors For Your Legal Needs
