Lawyers Needed to Get Behind Make a Will Week

Auckland law firms are being asked to put their hands up to partner with Mercy Hospice in a new initiative that aims to educate the public of the importance of having an up to date and accurate will.

Backed by the Auckland District Law Society the initiative involves local solicitors volunteering their will writing services to form a simple will. In exchange for this service, a voluntary donation is requested for Mercy Hospice Auckland.

Marcus Martin, Chairman of the Auckland District Law Society says many people are unaware of how important a will is, regardless of their age and stage in life.

"The reality is that people don't always realise what will happen if they don't make a will. They also think it's something you have time to sort in the future but it's in everyone's interests that people have a will. It ensures your wishes are adhered to, without a will there is no guarantee that this will happen."

In addition to first timers, Mr Martin also sees an opportunity for more mature people to have an existing will reviewed.

"People's situations change and often their will becomes outdated and irrelevant which can place them in a similar situation. This initiative would provide the perfect opportunity to have it checked and the necessary changes made."

Jan Nichols, Chief Executive of Mercy Hospice Auckland says that the early feedback from lawyers has been excellent and has encouraged the hospice to really push forward with the initiative.

"All of us should have an up to date will and we're keen to help local lawyers to promote this. The fact it could raise money for Mercy Hospice Auckland is an added bonus."

Ms Nichols says one aspect people might like to consider when having a will written is a bequest.

"It's something I have done. I have a unique perspective being Chief Executive of Mercy Hospice. I see daily the difference that we can make to the lives of patients and families that we care for but also know that, with additional funding, through bequests, we could do more. Whilst very much a personal decision, I hope that this initiative will encourage others to do the same as me."

Kevin Pearson, a Principal at Davonports City Law says he didn't hesitate to get involved when he heard about Free Will Week.

"Being a Ponsonby law practice we have a reasonable involvement with Mercy Hospice. I have nothing but praise for Mercy Hospice, the people are incredibly committed to ensuring patients and their families are fully supported at what is such a difficult time for people. We are lucky to have them and our firm will be delighted to be involved in 'Make A Will' Week."

Mr Martin encourages legal firms – large and small - to get involved. "As lawyers we all know the importance of a will, but in addition to this Hospices provide a wonderful service that our community is fortunate to be able to access, at no cost. With all of our help it is also one that will be there for generations in the future. Consequently, all at ADLS hope that this initiative will grow and we strongly encourage other practices to join in and support it."

'Make A Will' Week begins 28th February, 2011, for more information or to register your interest please email david.williams-jones@mercyhospice.org.nz by 14 February 2011.

For a full list of participating lawyers, please click here.