Today sees the launch of the Society of Trust and Estate Practitioners (STEP) Code for Will Preparation in England and Wales.
This new framework has been designed to give members of the public the assurance that, in choosing a STEP member to draft their Will, they are protected by a set of ethical principles and quality standards.
The STEP Will Writing Code is based on 12 principles, covering such topics as: transparency surrounding costs; dealing with vulnerable people; and being committed to ongoing professional training and development.
Steeles Law has long been a supporter of greater regulation in the Wills industry, having seen many local people experience the difficulties that can arise from a poorly, or incorrectly, drafted Will.
Whilst the Lord Chancellor decided in 2013 not to officially regulate Will Writing, the STEP Code can be seen as a positive step in the right direction. STEP members who fail to adhere to the Code could face disciplinary action.
For further information on drafting or updating your Will, please contact STEP members Karen Bacon or Angela Ireland on 01603 598000 (Norwich), 01379 652141 (Diss) or [email protected].
