News

Be aware of unregistered will-writers

A Gainsborough-based firm of solicitors is advising people against the use of unregistered law companies when preparing their legal documents. The advice follows a spate of cold calls from unaccredited companies to local residents, offering legal services.

Burton and Dyson is urging people to use firms of qualified solicitors who are registered with the Law Society, when looking to prepare important documents such as wills and lasting powers of attorney.

The Law Society is the professional regulatory body for the legal profession. It works to set, and maintain standards and ensure good practice, protecting both the members, and the public.

Burton and Dyson managing partner, Philip Westcott, said: “Not many people are aware that you do not have to be a solicitor to be a will writer, and no qualifications are required at all.

“Some unregistered companies cold call members of the public, offering will-writing services. This can be confusing to some people, especially older citizens, who may assume that the individual is a qualified solicitor and will therefore place the preparation of these important documents in their hands.

“Some of these companies do a perfectly competent job, but it is worth remembering that the organisation of your will and powers of attorney is an important task, which if handled badly, can cause severe consequences. Therefore we strongly advise people to use qualified solicitors who have the backing of the Law Society.

“By doing this you guarantee yourself total peace of mind in relation to your legal affairs, and can rely upon professional support from the Law Society, should any thing go wrong.”

To discuss your will and powers of attorney with a fully qualified and registered solicitor, please contact Burton and Dyson on 01427 610761.