Children's Inheritance Most parents want to make sure their children are provided for. But without the right planning, the money you leave behind might not reach them in the way you intended — or at all. The problem with assumptions When parents think about leaving money to their children, they tend to picture a straightforward transfer: they die, their children inherit, and the money is there for them when they need it. The reality is more complicated. Without careful planning, an...

Lasting Power of Attorney Most people assume that if something happened to them, their family would automatically be able to step in and help. They can't. Here's what you need to know. The assumption It's completely natural to assume that if you were in an accident, developed dementia, or became seriously ill and could no longer manage your own affairs, your spouse, children, or closest relatives would be able to take over. Pay your bills. Access your bank account. Make decisions about...

Unmarried Couples Millions of couples in the UK believe they have legal rights they simply don't have. Here's the truth — and what to do about it. The myth Ask most people what a "common law spouse" is, and they'll tell you: a partner you've lived with for long enough that the law treats you like a married couple. It sounds reasonable. It feels fair. And it is completely, dangerously wrong. There is no such thing as common law marriage in England or Scotland. It has never existed in...