Making a Will

Introduction

Many people avoid making a Will. In reality, a Will helps those left behind. If you die without a Will it means the rules of intestacy apply. Parliament made these rules and they govern the division of money, property and possessions belonging to the deceased. So, if after you die, you want to provide for family, friends or a charity then you should consider making a Will, otherwise, the State will decide.

Why I don't need a Will

• I haven't got much to leave.

What about your house and its contents; car; insurance policies; jewellery?

Why you do need a Will

• Do you want to provide for people beyond your immediate family?

• What about the tax consequences after death?

• Are you separated with children or an unmarried parent? What will happen to them if you die without making a Will?

• No Will could mean more worries for your family.

• Making a Will is a caring and sensible thing to do.

Making a Will

Most people use a Solicitor to help them make a Will, as they not only have the experience in drawing up a will but also can provide important advice on different legal issues that may affect it. You do not have to use a Solicitor but sometimes homemade Wills do not always mean what the writer thinks they do. There are many ways in which people who prepare and sign their own Will can go wrong. A lot of words and terms have specific meanings in law, which are different from their everyday use. This can often lead to unnecessary and expensive court cases to resolve the matter. If a Will is made, without the aid of a solicitor, always ensure that it is correctly witnessed and remember, a Will is a technical legal document, so if you have any doubts, you should seek a Solicitors advice.

If you choose to use a Solicitor, make sure you consider the following in advance of the meeting:

• The items you have to leave and a rough value of them.

• Think about whom you would like to provide for and in what way

• Consider whether you would like to leave money or property

• Decide who you want to receive your sentimental belongings.

• Think about whether you want to leave something to charity.

• Choose one or more executor. The executors can be spouses, or members of the family or friends.

Remember Circumstances Can Change

If you get married; become a homeowner; inherit money; have children; or if your relationship breaks up, you should review your Will.