STEP launch code of conduct for the preparation of Wills

STEP has recently announced the launch of a new Code for STEP members preparing wills in England and Wales.

The Code lays out a set of ethical principles that demonstrate openly the standard of transparency and service a client can expect from a STEP member preparing their will.

The Code, which will take effect from 1 April 2014 and will apply to all STEP members in England & Wales who prepare wills and is a framework how best to meet the needs of each individual client – while at the same time operating within appropriate standards.  STEP has introduced this Code following the UK government’s decision not to introduce a statutory scheme in relation to will writing, requesting instead that professional bodies voluntarily bring in their own codes.

Geoffrey Shindler OBE TEP, STEP President commented: ‘The Code will, I hope, become the hallmark to which all aspire when drafting wills. It is a condition of membership that we all adhere to the code, but it should be seen less as a burden and more as a positive benefit. It will demonstrate to clients, the public, to the government and to regulators that we are of a gold standard when it comes to preparing wills for individual clients.

Sarah Littlewood is a member of STEP and welcomes the introduction of the code.  If you would like to make a Will please contact her on 01274 723858 or e-mail her sarah@rdcsolicitors.co.uk