Qualified, friendly, and experienced in simplifying the process of creating Wills and Powers of Attorney to suit your specific needs at an affordable cost. 

While minimising costs & taxes is important, our focus is on planning for people's families, not just their bank accounts.   

We take the time to understand your requirements and work with you to create a document that aligns with them. 

Remember, creating a Will and power of attorney isn't just for your benefit, it's done for the well-being of your loved ones.

Fern Wills & LPAs, because it’s for them….

Christopher Watts MSWW/ CeMap/ CertRBCB

Private Client Consultant

I am a fully qualified member of The Society of Will Writers and Estate Planners (MSWW). I have worked in financial services since 2001 and Will Writing and Estate Planning since 2012. My life has been marked by significant personal loss, heightening my empathy, understanding and care. I have extensive experience working with vulnerable clients. The best part of my job is when clients have overcome their fears, concerns, and procrastination and have done something positive (often with plenty of laughs along the way).

Donna-Marie Smith LLB (Hons), Dip. Eng. Law, ACILEX, ASWW

Chartered Private Client Lawyer

I am an Associate of The Society of Will Writers (ASWW). This denotes advanced knowledge and experience in professionally drafting Wills, trusts, and powers of attorney since 2007. I have extensive experience guiding clients through probate. Every document I create is written to be simple, cost-effective, and best for my clients. The best part of my job is when I am able to make a significant difference to a client by simply changing one word or sentence. (new photo pending)

because it's for them...

Wills
3 min read

Wills

Discover the importance of creating a Will and how it can help protect your assets and provide for your loved ones.

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Powers Of Attorney (POA)
4 min read

Powers Of Attorney (POA)

A power of attorney ensures that someone you trust can act on your behalf when you’re unable to do so.

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Trusts
4 min read

Trusts

Trusts are not just for the wealthy; they can benefit anyone who wants better control.

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Guardianship
5 min read

Guardianship

A guardianship clause in your Will is crucial because informal arrangements are not legally enforceable. Ensure your children will be cared for by someone you trust in the way you intend.

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Letter Of Wishes
3 min read

Letter Of Wishes

A document that advises executors on handling the estate, funeral, and personal matters. It explains the reasons and goals behind the Will and trust.

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Severance Of Tenancy
1 min read

Severance Of Tenancy

Splitting joint ownership into individual shares gives each person control and the ability to leave their share in a Will.

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Storage & Security
2 min read

Storage & Security

The original copies of your Will and legal documents are the only ones that are legally valid. They should be kept in a secure place where they can be easily found and accessed when needed.

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Reviews & Updates
1 min read

Reviews & Updates

It’s wise to review your Will at least every three years, or earlier if significant life changes, to ensure it still reflects your wishes.

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Probate
3 min read

Probate

Losing a loved one is an emotional and challenging time. We can help with the legal and financial tasks of administering their estate so you can focus on healing and grieving. Let us manage the paperwork for your family.

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Advance Decision
3 min read

Advance Decision

An Advance Decision allows you to refuse medical treatment if you lose the capacity to make decisions. It ensures your wishes are known to your family and medical professionals.

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Priced for value, service & excellence, not mediocrity.

£275

Lasting Powers of Attorney

  • One LPA £275
  • Individual £400 for both Health & Property
  • Couples £675 for both Health & Property
  • Office Of Public Guardian Fee £82 per LPA
£175

Basic/ Standard Will

  • Individual Basic Will £175
  • Couples "Mirror" Wills £300
  • Guardians, beneficiaries & gifts; for small estates without children/ or property.
£400

Trusts (Property & Family Protection)

  • Individual Trust £400 each
  • Couples Trusts £600 each
  • Protect Property, vulnerable adults, each other & children's inheritance.
£40

Letter Of Wishes £40

  • Supports Wills, Trusts & LPAs
  • Add control, flexibility and clarity
  • Saves re-writes and family disagreements
£2

Home visits

  • 1st visit is free
  • 2nd visit £2 mile from the closest office.
  • CV23 0UQ or NN6 6HN
£75

Certificate Provider or Witness services

  • Available for home visits only
  • Guidance is given for you to complete for free
  • Only if capacity does not need 2nd opinion
£300

General Power Of Attorney

  • Also known as Ordinary Power of Attorney
  • No registration, effective immediately
  • Useful overseas, time-based or specific use
£75

Severance of Tenancy

  • Converts 100% as Joint tenants into:
  • Tenancy in common (50/50)
  • Needed for trusts and property protection
£35Year

Insured Storage - per A4 Envelope

  • £2m insurance per document. Free access
  • Registered with National Will Register
  • Any documents that fit in A4 Document
£35

Watermarked copies of your documents

  • Electronic copies are free £0
  • Make your own copies £0
  • Free with insured Storage £0
£0

Updates

  • Free review of any Estate planning documents.
  • Update to Fern documents 25% discount
  • Since 2013: Offer may be withdrawn or amended
£100

Advance Decision/ DNR/ Respect Form

  • Advance decision to refuse treatment
  • Do not resuscitate etc.
  • To be registered with your doctor

because its for them...

1

Quick Chat

Reach us through this website's contact form or call 07500 866 123 (remember 123 at the end). The first call is brief so we can answer any immediate questions and get an overview. We send a welcome pack and questionnaire to help you consider your needs. If returned before our first consultation, it will save you time and allow you to focus on what matters to you.

2

Personal consultation

We want to understand your story. We sit down with you (online or in person) to discover who you care about and what truly matters. With essential information about your assets and family situation, we listen to what you want. This is a mutual chat because you decide if you are happy to work with us.

3

Tailored advice

Your life isn’t a template, nor should your Will or LPA be. We provide tailored information to guide you through the various options. Whether you need a simple Will or a more comprehensive solution, We ensure it aligns with your goals. We will never pressure or ask you to pay for anything you do not need or want. We listen, present the options, and you choose.

4

Will & LPA drafting

We draft your documents carefully. They reflect whether you want to leave your wedding ring to your niece, your painting above the fireplace to your best friend, or a trust overseen by your brother-in-law to look after your child with specific needs. It could be a power of attorney because you have seen a loved one suffer by not having one. We pay attention to every detail, ensuring your wishes are accurately documented.

5

Trust in trusts

Modern families require modern solutions. Maybe you have a blended family, step-children or are unmarried. You may wish to reduce a 40% Inheritance Tax burden for your beneficiaries. If a trust meets your needs, we will discuss this with you.

6

Helping you now

A common misconception is that this is all about what happens to “what you pass on when you pass on”. With affordable options for Powers of Attorney, the benefits to you and your family start as soon as they are registered. We will help you to discuss the options with your family if required.

7

Quality & compliance

We ensure that your documents comply with all the latest legal requirements. We are qualified members of The Society of Will Writers and adhere to their code of conduct.

8

Storage and access

The original, hand-signed versions of Wills are the only legally recognised forms. Digital copies like scans and photocopies aren’t valid in court because they lack your signature. Partnering with National Will Safe to store Wills, Deeds & LPAs is a great way to ensure these important documents are kept securely and can be retrieved for free when necessary.

9

Ongoing support

We aim to be more than just Will writers; we strive to be your personal Will writers. This means we’re dedicated to updating your Will with regular reviews and adapting to life’s changes. We’re also committed to earning your trust, and we hope you’ll confidently recommend us to your friends and family.

  • Fern Wills & LPAs, 7 Fern Close, Rugby, UK
  • CV23 0UQ

Northants Office: 11 Wakefield Drive, Welford, Northants, NN6 6HN


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If you have an EPA in place, now is a good time to consider reviewing your planning. You can keep your existing EPA in place but draw up an LPA for your Health and welfare or replace it with an LPA for Property and financial affairs to take advantage of the stronger safeguards and flexibility.

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4 min read

Carers often worry about “What will happen in the future?” Despite this, not enough carers and those they care for take the relatively simple step of making a Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA). An LPA can be vital as it gives the carer the authority to act in the best interests of the person they care for if they lose the capacity to make decisions for themselves.

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2 min read

A H&W LPA gives authority to make decisions on your behalf, such as exercise, dietary requirements, medical or dental care, and decisions on life-sustaining treatment. Where the donor lives, i.e. relocation into a care home or sheltered accommodation.

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2 min read

A P&F LPA allows the authority to make decisions on your behalf, such as Managing bank accounts, paying bills, claiming income and benefits, and buying, selling or repairing property.

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2 min read

When creating Lasting Powers of Attorney, the people you choose to act on your behalf are called ‘Attorneys’. This article outlines key considerations in choosing attorneys.

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3 min read

The importance of LPAs. An infographic from the Office of the Public Guardian.

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1 min read

The certificate provider is crucial in establishing an LPA. This impartial individual safeguards the donor's interests by ensuring their understanding and willingness when creating the LPA.

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2 min read

Once you and your attorneys receive the Registered LPA you are advised to activate it online. This is a step-by-step walkthrough of the process.

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16 min read

There are several options for paying the Office Of The Public Guardian (OPG) registration fees. This is a step-by-step walkthrough of the payment process.

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3 min read

Understanding how Property & Finance LPAs work in relation to selling and buying property.

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3 min read

A GPA can be an excellent alternative for someone who needs someone to make decisions for them immediately. There is no registration requirement, so the document is ready to use as soon as it has been properly signed.

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4 min read

Do you feel lucky enough to gamble your house and life savings? Or are you going to call Fern Wills, talk it through over a cup of coffee and avoid the 8 most common errors in Wills and the 23 most common errors in LPAs?

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1 min read

I had just left my chair, and Murphy jumped straight into my spot. I casually said, "Jump in my grave, why don't you? "An innocent phrase used by many of us. It reminded me of current plans for reopening closed burial grounds to address the issue of limited space in urban areas.

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1 min read

This is the standard way of providing the executors with the technical and routine provisions they need to administer the estate properly. In particular, this authorises professional executors or trustees to charge for their work.

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1 min read

Complex families often come with complex requirements to meet their long-term goals, and matters can be made more difficult when each testator has separate goals or concerns in mind. These goals usually revolve around the inheritance the children are to ultimately receive and when they receive it, and in certain cases, if they inherit at all. Using a Life Interest of the Residuary Estate can cater for most family needs for a number of reasons;

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2 min read

We should always consider Pets (the furry, scaly, feathered type). You may be pleased to know you can make provisions for them in your Will. Pets can be included in your will through an animal-purpose trust, which ensures their care and upkeep.

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3 min read

These are common questions regarding Wills, Trusts and Powers Of Attorney. All answers are simplified for the article; please get in touch with us directly for a fuller and personalised answer. No content on this website is advice.

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2 min read

Being appointed as an executor is a responsibility at a time where they are grieving the loss of a loved one.

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2 min read

Many people don’t realise the effects getting married or divorced can have on your estate, whether you die with a Will or intestate (without a Will).

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3 min read

If someone dies and their estate is worth more than the basic Inheritance Tax threshold, their estate may qualify for the residence nil rate band (RNRB) before any Inheritance Tax is due.

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4 min read

Where a client wants to provide for a beneficiary who is disabled, they may want to leave assets in a disabled person’s trust.

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5 min read

20 potential scenarios outlining what could happen to your assets after your passing.

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8 min read

Property Protection Trusts (PPTs) are among the most common. They are typically used by couples to ensure that a share of the home will ultimately pass to children while still protecting the surviving spouse's interests.

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9 min read

An executor is someone appointed in a will to distribute the estate of the testator in accordance with the wishes set out in the Will. Quite often, this will mean drawing in assets and paying any debts and liabilities owed before being able to make any of the gifts set out in the Will.

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3 min read
Discover the personalised service of Fern Wills & LPAs, where in-home consultations for will preparation bring a personal touch to securing your future.

We focus on understanding your unique needs, ensuring accuracy and convenience without the frustration of online forms. Experience a smooth, stress-free process as we prioritise people over paperwork. Let us help you create a Will and Power Of Attorney that truly reflects your wishes. 
Martin Lewis explains why a Power of Attorney is crucial protection and more important than a will. 

Courtesy of ITV The Martin Lewis Money Show Live aired 21 November 2023.
     

WE AIM TO SURPASS YOUR EXPECTATIONS. WHEN YOU HAVE EXPERIENCED EXCEPTIONAL VALUE, GUIDANCE, AND SERVICE.

Please CLICK TO leave a review
Mrs MW. Rugby
Home Visits & Fixed fee
     

I chose Chris to apply for LPAs. He was informative, and I was soon confident I made the right choice. I was particularly happy to have home visits as I don't like doing business on the phone. He was very easy to talk to and willing to discuss and explain things. Chris has planned a process in which his fee covers everything, even stationary and postage. I would have no hesitation in recommending Chris.

Full Review
Mr BN. Coventry
Under Budget & honest
     

"I needed a Power of Attorney for my foreign property, but the solicitor's quote of £800 was too expensive. I got all the documents for myself, mother, & brother at a fair price. He is an honest person, and I recommend him to my family.

Mr WJ. Market Harborough
Three changes to my Will
     

"I wrote my Will three times. After my wife died, my brother and I reconciled briefly, but we fell out again. I don't have much of value, but my medals and records are important. I gave Chris something when I updated my Will for the third time, but it probably didn't even cover the cost of his petrol. Thanks."

Mr & Mrs BC. Rugby
Limited Budget
     

"We thought a basic Will was enough but our daughter's specific needs exceeded our budget. Chris added the Trust for free instead of providing a Will that wouldn't match our needs. We're grateful and happy to recommend him."

Mrs CC. Northampton
Guardianship & ex-husband
     

I have divorced my husband and definitely don't want him to have custody of our children or any more of our money. Chris explained a few strategies that would help to ensure that my children are protected.

Mr & Mrs SW. Rugby
Pending Operation
     

"My husband needed an operation but was nervous to discuss it. I booked the appointment and Chris made us feel at ease. He wrote and signed the Will within 48 hours."

Mrs MS. Leicester
Urgent LPA
     

"I got an LPA for my daughter to help me on bad days. We needed it urgently, so we got a General one for now. He called my son to explain. My daughter is relieved."

MR CB. Rugby
New to area
     

I bought a house after a divorce. I needed a Will as my health wasn't great, and there were now a few people who I definitely did not want to inherit. I did not know anyone in the area, so he organised a Witness for me. Great Guy!

Ms. D. Lutterworth
OMG Common-law myth
     

I've been with my partner for 12 years, have three kids, and own a house in his name. I contribute to the mortgage and bills, but we found out that I would inherit nothing if something happened to him because we're not married. Also, he has no legal rights over the kids as his name isn't on the birth certificates. We sorted these issues out, but it was a wake-up call.

MRs TJ. Rugby
Need absolute confidentiality
     

"As a teen, I had a child but lost contact. I need to do right by them. I was helped to leave an inheritance confidentially."

Mr. JF. Daventry
Small Business Owner
     

Fern Wills & LPAs made setting up my will and trust straightforward and affordable. Their transparent pricing was refreshing!

Mrs HO. Rugby
Listens & Involves Family
     

Chris is very easy to talk too and listens. Able to explain technical jargon in a way we could understand. Chris responded very quickly to questions we raised. Involving my family in discussions can be distressing. Chris understands and is able to put people at ease. Chris is passionate about what he does and this is evident. We would have no hesitation in recommending him.

Full review

Proudly supporting all customers & communities which we serve. Click images for details.

We work with other Professional Advisers to provide exceptional service to clients.  

Trusted Advisers - Consumer Duty
10 min read

Trusted Advisers - Consumer Duty

Implementing the FCA's consumer duty principles holds the trusted adviser industry accountable for delivering good consumer outcomes. This includes estate planning as part of wealth preservation, which should be conducted at annual reviews or when relevant to clients' needs.

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Financial Advisors.
2 min read

Financial Advisors.

At Fern Wills & LPAs, we understand the importance of comprehensive estate planning. We work closely with financial advisors to ensure our recommended plans align with your needs and preferences.

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Accountants
2 min read

Accountants

An accountant's knowledge of a client's personal and business affairs, as well as inheritance and capital gains tax, makes them well-placed to help clients decide what to put into a Will or Trust.

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Insurance Brokers
6 min read

Insurance Brokers

Insurance brokers aim to provide holistic financial advice. A crucial aspect of this is ensuring that clients have Wills and powers of attorney in place to protect their assets and wishes in case of incapacity or death.

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HR Consultants
5 min read

HR Consultants

In today’s fast-paced business environment, HR consultants play a crucial role in ensuring employees' well-being and legal compliance. One often overlooked aspect of this is the referral to professional Will writers. Here’s a look at why HR consultants might make these referrals and how they benefit employees and employers.

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Advocates
3 min read

Advocates

Advocacy involves providing support and guidance to individuals to help them express their views, make informed choices, and access services that meet their needs. Advocates work alongside you to ensure your voice is heard and your rights are upheld, empowering you to confidently navigate life's challenges.

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ensuring your rights, security and peace of mind

Terms of Business
1 min read

Terms of Business

To ensure the highest professional and ethical standards, the following standard terms of business apply to all instructions accepted by Fern Wills & Trusts.

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Treating Customers Fairly (TCF)
1 min read

Treating Customers Fairly (TCF)

We commit to offering customers the highest possible service standards and are pleased to support the Society of Will Writers ‘TCF principles.

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Privacy Policy
4 min read

Privacy Policy

The privacy policy outlines how Fern Wills & LPAs may collect and use your data.

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Complaints Policy
1 min read

Complaints Policy

If you are not satisfied with any aspect of our service, please bring your complaint to our attention as follows:

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Evidence Of Identity
1 min read

Evidence Of Identity

For your information security, we verify every client's identity. Please provide an original passport or UK photo driving licence to copy and keep with your records. See the attached list of alternatives.

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Professional Indemnity & Public Liability Insurance
1 min read

Professional Indemnity & Public Liability Insurance

Confirmation of £2.5m Professional Indemnity, and £5m Public Liability Insurance. (in addition to £2m storage insurance not shown)

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