Making A Will – A Breakdown
A Will is a legal document that outlines how a person’s assets and possessions should be distributed after their death. Making a Will is important because it ensures that the individual’s wishes are followed and can help prevent disputes and confusion among family members or beneficiaries.
Here is a detailed description of the process of making a Will, why it is important, and why having a solicitor to make your Will is crucial:
Step 1: Decide who your beneficiaries are and what you want to leave them.
The first step in making a Will is to decide who your beneficiaries will be and what you want to leave them. This could include specific assets such as property, cash, or personal possessions. You may also want to leave gifts to charities or other organisations.
Step 2: Choose an executor
An executor is the person responsible for carrying out the wishes outlined in your Will. It is important to choose someone who is trustworthy, responsible, and capable of handling the administrative duties that come with being an executor.
Step 3: Seek legal advice
While it is possible to make a Will without the assistance of a solicitor, seeking legal advice can be beneficial in ensuring that your Will is valid and legally binding. A solicitor can also provide guidance on the best way to structure your Will to minimise taxes and ensure that your wishes are followed. We can help.
Step 4: Draft your Will
With the guidance of a solicitor, you can draft your Will. This will typically involve detailing your wishes for the distribution of your assets and possessions, as well as appointing an executor to carry out these wishes. It is important to ensure that your Will is clear, concise, and free from ambiguity.
Step 5: Sign and witness your Will
Once your Will has been drafted, it must be signed and witnessed by two people who are not beneficiaries or related to beneficiaries named in the Will. This helps to ensure that your Will is valid and legally binding.
Step 6: Keep your Will safe and up-to-date
After your Will has been signed and witnessed, it should be kept in a safe place such as a bank safe deposit box or with a solicitor. It is also important to review your Will periodically and update it as necessary to reflect any changes in your circumstances or wishes.
Why should you make a Will?
There are several reasons why making a Will is important. Firstly, it ensures that your wishes are followed after your death, and can help prevent disputes and confusion among family members or beneficiaries. Additionally, it can help to minimise taxes and other expenses, and can provide peace of mind knowing that your affairs are in order.
Should you use a solicitor when making a Will?
It is important to use a solicitor when making a Will because they are trained legal professionals who can help ensure that your wishes are clearly and legally expressed in your Will. Here are some reasons why:
- Avoiding errors: A solicitor can help you avoid making errors in your Will, such as leaving out important information or using vague language that could lead to disputes and legal challenges.
- Legal requirements: Solicitors are knowledgeable about the legal requirements for creating a valid Will. They can help ensure that your Will meets all of the requirements so that it will be legally binding.
- Complex estates: If you have a complex estate, with multiple assets and beneficiaries, a solicitor can help you navigate the legal complexities and ensure that your Will accurately reflects your wishes.
- Updating your Will: A solicitor can also help you update your Will over time as your circumstances change. This is important to ensure that your Will remains current and accurately reflects your wishes.
- Reduce family disputes: Using a solicitor to make your Will can help reduce the likelihood of family disputes after your passing. A solicitor can help you clearly communicate your wishes and ensure that they are legally binding, reducing the chance of disagreements among your heirs.
If you are considering making a Will, contact us online or by phone on 01536 276300 or 01536 311690 to speak to our Will writing specialists.