Protect Your Family’s Future Before It’s Too Late
Professional wills and lasting powers of attorney for families across Leicester and Leicestershire. We handle the paperwork so you can focus on what matters.
No obligation. No pressure. Just honest, professional advice.
What Happens Without Proper Planning?
Most people assume their loved ones will be looked after. The reality can be very different.
Without a Valid Will
If you pass away without a will, the law decides who inherits your estate. Your partner, children or other loved ones may receive far less than you intended, or nothing at all.
Unmarried partners have no automatic right to inherit, regardless of how long you have been together.
Without Lasting Powers of Attorney
If illness or an accident leaves you unable to manage your own affairs, your family cannot automatically step in to help. They may need to apply to the Court of Protection, a process that can take months and cost thousands.
The Court of Protection may appoint someone you would never have chosen to make decisions on your behalf.
Peace of Mind is Within Reach
A professionally prepared will and lasting powers of attorney give you certainty. Your wishes are clear. Your family is protected. The hard decisions are already made.
How We Can Help
Clear, professional documents prepared by a qualified estate planning specialist.
Wills
A properly drafted will ensures your assets go to the people you choose, in the way you want.
- Appoint guardians for your children
- Protect your home and savings
- Reduce potential inheritance tax
- Prevent family disputes
- Include gifts to charities you care about
Lasting Powers of Attorney
An LPA allows someone you trust to make decisions on your behalf if you ever become unable to do so yourself.
- Choose who manages your finances
- Choose who makes health decisions
- Avoid the Court of Protection
- Maintain control over your care
- Give your family the authority to help
A Simple, Straightforward Process
We guide you through every step. No legal jargon. No hidden surprises.
Consult
We discuss your situation and explain your options in plain English.
Draft
We prepare your documents based on your specific wishes and circumstances.
Review
You check everything is correct. We answer any questions you have.
Sign
We arrange proper signing and witnessing so your documents are legally valid.
Free Estate Planning Checklist
Not sure where to start? Our simple checklist helps you understand what you need to consider when planning for the future.
- Key questions to ask yourself about your will
- When you need lasting powers of attorney
- Documents to gather before your consultation
- Common mistakes to avoid
Get Your Free Checklist
We respect your privacy. No spam, ever.
What Our Clients Say
Families across Leicestershire trust us to protect what matters most.
“Gerard made the whole process so straightforward. He explained everything clearly and we felt confident our wishes would be carried out exactly as we wanted.”
Mr and Mrs T, Leicester
“We had been putting off sorting our wills for years. Gerard came to our home and made it all so easy. Highly recommended.”
Mrs S, Market Harborough
“Professional, patient and thorough. Gerard helped us set up lasting powers of attorney for my elderly mother. It gave the whole family peace of mind.”
Mr D, Loughborough
STEP Qualified
Diploma in Trusts & EstatesFully Insured
£2m Professional Indemnity5-Star Reviews
Google VerifiedCommon Questions
Honest answers to help you decide if we are right for you.
How much does it cost?
We provide a clear, fixed-fee quotation before any work begins. There are no hidden charges or hourly rates that spiral out of control.
A straightforward single will typically starts from around £200. Mirror wills for couples, lasting powers of attorney and more complex arrangements are quoted individually based on your circumstances.
Can I write my own will?
Legally, yes. However, a DIY will is one of the most common causes of family disputes and failed estates. Small errors in wording can invalidate the entire document or create ambiguity that leads to expensive court cases.
A professionally prepared will costs far less than the problems a poorly drafted one can cause.
Do you come to my home?
Yes. We offer home visits across Leicester, Leicestershire and surrounding areas at no extra charge. Many clients find this more convenient and comfortable than travelling to an office.
If you prefer, we can also arrange consultations by video call or telephone.
How long does the process take?
A straightforward will can often be completed within two to three weeks from initial consultation to signing. Lasting powers of attorney take longer because they must be registered with the Office of the Public Guardian, which currently takes around 12 weeks.
We always recommend planning ahead rather than waiting until documents are urgently needed.
What if my circumstances change?
Life changes, and your will should change with it. Marriage, divorce, the birth of children or grandchildren, and significant changes to your assets are all reasons to review your will.
We recommend reviewing your will every three to five years, or whenever your circumstances change significantly. We are always happy to discuss updates.
Are you a solicitor?
No. Gerard James Estate Planning is a specialist estate planning firm, not a solicitors’ practice. Gerard holds the STEP Diploma in Trusts and Estates, the recognised industry standard for will writers and estate planners.
This specialisation means you receive focused expertise in wills, trusts and powers of attorney, often at a lower cost than a general practice solicitor.
Your first conversation is free, with no obligation. Call us today or send an enquiry and we will get back to you promptly.
07905 748073