5 Legal Documents Every Coventry Parent Should Have in Place
- mayaandco
- Nov 10
- 3 min read
Raising a family comes with countless responsibilities, but one of the most important is ensuring your loved ones are legally protected. At Maya & Co Solicitors in Coventry, we often speak with parents who haven’t yet formalised key legal documents that could safeguard their children’s wellbeing, inheritance, or future plans.
Whether you're starting a family, buying a home, or simply planning ahead, these five legal documents provide essential peace of mind for Coventry parents.
1. A Legally Valid Will
Many parents believe that everything will automatically pass to their partner or children if they die unexpectedly. However, without a legally valid Will, your estate may be distributed under intestacy laws, which may not reflect your wishes.
Why Every Parent Needs a Will
Appoint guardians for your children
Ensure your partner is financially protected
Decide how your estate is distributed
Avoid delays and family disputes
A properly drafted Will is especially vital for unmarried parents or blended families. At Maya & Co Solicitors, our Coventry-based Wills & Probate solicitors will guide you through the process with fixed-fee packages and friendly, jargon-free advice.
🔗 Related Service: Wills & Probate Solicitors in Coventry
2. Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA)
While a Will protects your wishes after death, a Lasting Power of Attorney allows someone you trust to make decisions on your behalf if you lose mental capacity due to illness or accident.
Types of LPAs Parents Should Consider
Health & Welfare LPA: Covers medical decisions, care, and daily routines
Property & Financial Affairs LPA: Covers managing bank accounts, paying bills, and property decisions
An LPA is not just for the elderly. Parents with young families often find it essential when planning for the unexpected.
🔗 Explore this via our Legal Deeds & Notary Services
3. Guardianship Appointment
If your children are under 18, it’s important to appoint a legal guardian who will care for them should both parents pass away. This can be done within your Will, but should be clearly documented and communicated.
What Happens Without It?
The court decides who cares for your children
Your family may face disputes or delays
Social services could become involved temporarily
Naming a guardian provides clarity, stability, and peace of mind.
4. Consent to Travel Letter
Planning an overseas trip with your child, or sending them abroad with a relative? You may need a Consent to Travel letter to pass through immigration checks, especially if only one parent is travelling.
When Is It Required?
When a child travels with one parent only
When grandparents or relatives take the child abroad
For visa applications or custody-sensitive destinations
We regularly assist Coventry families with clear, notarised travel consent letters accepted by UK and international authorities.
5. Declaration of Parental Responsibility
If you're an unmarried father, you may not automatically have Parental Responsibility, even if you're on the birth certificate (depending on the child's birth date). A declaration can formalise your rights legally.
Benefits of a Declaration
Right to be involved in education, healthcare, and legal decisions
Formal recognition by schools and government bodies
Supports smoother travel, passport applications, and more
We can draft and help you register a formal Parental Responsibility Agreement, ensuring your rights as a parent are recognised and respected.
Local Legal Support from Maya & Co Solicitors
We’ve supported families in Coventry, Birmingham, Warwickshire, and the West Midlands since 2009. Our services are:
SRA-regulated and CQS-accredited
Fixed-fee where possible, with clear upfront costs
Based on Foleshill Road in Coventry, close to city centre links
Rated positively by local families for being friendly, responsive, and efficient
FAQs – Legal Protection for Coventry Parents
Do both parents need to make a Will?
Yes. Each individual should have their own legally valid Will to ensure clarity and legal standing.
Can I appoint more than one guardian?
You can. Many parents appoint a couple or include backup guardians if their first choice is unavailable.
When should I update my Will?
After major life events like marriage, divorce, childbirth, or buying property.
What’s the difference between an LPA and guardianship?
An LPA handles your affairs while you're alive but incapacitated. Guardianship relates to caring for your children after death.
Is a handwritten Will valid in the UK?
It may be, but it’s risky. Wills must meet strict criteria. Using a solicitor ensures it’s legally binding and properly stored.
Speak to a Family-Focused Solicitor in Coventry Today
Looking to protect your family’s future with the right legal documents? Maya & Co Solicitors offers friendly, professional advice on Wills, guardianship, LPAs, and more. Let’s help you secure peace of mind.
Call 02476 66 4000
Visit: 434 Foleshill Road, Coventry, CV6 5JX
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