We think that it’s important to know the people behind the business. We offer such a personal service and build relationships with clients so we hope these questions and answers help you feel like you know Natalie a little better…
If you weren’t doing what you do now, what would you be doing?
Most likely still working in a law firm, either in residential conveyancing or commercial property law. Or maybe helping my husband in his cyber security business, although I am utterly useless with technology!
What advice would you give to your 18 year old self?
Enjoy life! Enjoy the little moments the most, and sleep more……twins are on the cards and it’s hard!
What made you set up the business?
My twins! I didn’t want my children to go to full time nursery (so I could work 9-5 in a law firm) but knew I couldn’t be at home all the time. I really wanted to continue with my legal career but enjoy being with my children while they were small, and finding something that would suit both was difficult. The last 7 years have been difficult but I have the balance with my career and being their at school drop off and pick up.
Dispel one common myth about your industry
Ooo that’s hard, there are so many!
People who think they don’t need a Will because ‘everything will go to my partner’ (common law marriage)…..this is not true and will actually go to other family members not their partner.
People who think their spouses/partner can simply access their bank accounts and deal with everything automatically on their behalf if something happened to them…..this will not be legally allowed by the bank without the spouse/partner having a valid power of attorney document.
Lastly, most people assume that all will writers are legally qualified and it simply isn’t the case. Will Writing is a completely unregulated industry and is not deemed as a ‘reserved legal activity’ so it is possible for anyone to set up a will writing company with no experience or legal qualification
What are bad recommendations you hear in your profession?
“Just get a pack from the Post Office/WH Smiths” – referring to DIY Wills. Anyone is able to write their own Will, as long as it is signed correctly it will be valid but it’s not always the best idea! Most families are not simple and most people’s estates are worth more than the inheritance tax thresholds and without getting the correct advice, that DIY Will could cause more hassle and stress for those left behind.
“After your divorce, make sure you update your Will”. Your estate is actually at most risk to being inherited by a soon to be ex-spouse between separation and divorce. If you died before your divorce, there is nothing in Law that prevents your soon to be ex-spouse from inheriting.
When you feel overwhelmed or unfocused, or have lost your focus temporarily, what do you do?
I will normally put my headphones in with Stereophonics or Pink on and go for a walk, or play a card game with my kids
One piece of advice you would share to help people through this challenging time?
Life is really hard and uncertain at the moment so be kind to each other, in person and online – you have no idea what is going on in that other person’s life or mind.
If you could listen to only one song and eat the same meal, every day for the rest of your life, what would you choose?
Dakota by Stereophonics
Steak with peppercorn sauce and chips with a side salad – although definitely not good everyday!
Got a question you’d like to ask Natalie? Get in touch!