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Legal Planning

Preparing for the future with faith and clarity Planning for the end of life is not about fear it is about responsibility, mercy, and care for those we leave behind. Islam encourages us to make our affairs clear so that our families are not burdened with confusion or disputes after death. The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said: “It is the duty of a Muslim who has something to bequeath not to let two nights pass without writing a will about it.” (Bukhari & Muslim)

Why Legal Planning Matters

Legal planning is both an Islamic duty and a practical necessity.
It protects your family from unnecessary hardship.
It ensures your wealth and wishes are honoured according to Shari’ah.
It saves time, cost, and stress during a period of grief.

Key Areas of Legal Planning

Islamic Will (Wasiyyah)

Every Muslim should have a written will that divides wealth according to Shari’ah and UK law. This includes instructions for debts, guardianship of children, and charitable bequests.

Lasting Power of Attorney

Appointing someone you trust to make decisions about your health or finances if you are unable to do so. This ensures your faith and values are respected, especially in medical settings.

Advance Statement of Wishes

A written record of your specific wishes. For example: rapid burial, avoiding post-mortems unless legally required, ensuring an imam or chaplain is contacted.

Funeral and Burial Instructions

Clear guidance about how you wish your funeral to be carried out helps families and professionals act quickly, particularly where a 24-hour burial is important.

Registering Important Documents

Keep copies of wills, powers of attorney, and funeral wishes in a safe but accessible place. Make sure your family or executor knows where to find them.

Getting Started

Writing a Will and Preparing Legal Documents

Writing a will and preparing legal documents may feel overwhelming, but beginning the process is an act of worship and responsibility. Even a simple draft can prevent confusion later.

Practical Steps Include:

  • Listing your assets and debts
  • Deciding guardianship for children
  • Allocating up to one-third of your estate for charity or special bequests
  • Writing down funeral and burial wishes
  • Consulting a solicitor who understands both UK inheritance law and Islamic principles