It is important that operators of small businesses have mechanisms in place to deal with their business should they fall ill or in the event that they should pass away.

This can be of particular importantance in partnerships and joint ventures where each member of the partnership or joint venture may be required to actively continue the business.  The partnership or joint venture agreements should contain clauses to deal with these eventualities.

It is also important to have provisions made for families of small business operators so that they can be provided for and the business asssets and income properly dealt with.  This may require considering particular provisions of a Will or Trust instrument.

Small business operators should always consult a solicitor on these important, and often overlooked, issues in protecting their business and familiy interests.

The comments above are a general discussion of wills and estate planning and should not be taken as legal advice.  Before you make any decisions you should consult a qualified solicitor to protect your interests.