Making a Will is not something that people like to consider. However it is an inevitability which should be addressed to ensure that everything is put in place should anything happen to you, so that your family and loved ones are protected. Our Wills and Probate team are dedicated and experienced in advising and assisting clients according to their position and requirements in a compassionate and straightforward manner.
Without a Will you leave the decision as to how your assets are to be distributed to the fixed Rules of Intestacy. This can often result in large sums of your money going to people who you do not want to receive them. There is also the prospect of your loved ones facing a large Inheritance Tax Bill and a proportion of your estate going to the tax man. The only way to ensure that your wishes are fully carried out is by drafting your Will.
There are several important occasions in your life when you need to consider making or amending a Will. These include:
- On the birth of a child. It is important to ensure that all of your children are provided for in your Will and that a Guardian of your choice is appointed to look after them should anything happen to you.
- Getting married or entering into a Civil Partnership. Upon marriage or civil partnership a previously made Will becomes void unless a certain provision which includes an intention to marry or enter into a civil partnership is included in the Will.
- Purchasing a house. This is often one of the biggest assets that you will own and therefore it is very important that this is dealt with should anything happen to you, especially if you have bought a house with someone else.
- Separating from a partner or getting divorced. Although under the law any gifts in a Will to a person who you are divorced from would be declared void, it is important to ensure that your Will reflects your current position. Until a Decree Absolute is proclaimed the divorce will not be finalised and this will not apply if you were not married.
There are further implications for unmarried couples as they do not have the same rights as a Spouse or Civil Partner which could result in your Partner inheriting nothing under your Will.
Whether it be a simple Will or a complex trust document we will be able to provide you with a service tailored to your needs. Our team have varying skills and experience to be able to help you whatever your needs.
Call 01792 773 773 or tell us how we can help you here.
