Relatives Not Automatically Granted Custody of Orphans

Social Services could decide who brings up your children if you and your husband or wife both die.

It’s a little known fact that your kids would not automatically live with their grandparents or godparents or other relatives. The last thing your grieving family needs following a tragedy is a courtroom battle with the authorities.

Appointing a guardian in your will, or via a signed and dated document, would avoid this harrowing experience.

However, as a spokesman for The Society of Will Writers rather helpfully points out, it’s a good idea to “obtain the consent of the proposed guardian before making the appointment”.

To legally appoint someone to take parental responsibility for any of your children aged under 18 in the event of you both dying, contact Heritage Will Writing on 02380 879243.