Making a Will Guide

Make a Will and Look After Your Family

It's easy.  A phone call to us is all you need to start things moving.  We have friendly and efficient staff who are used to dealing with your queries and will know the questions to ask to ensure that the Will we prepare for you is exactly what you want.

Why making a Will is so important

It is the only way of making sure your final wishes are carried out; without a Will the law decides who gets what, and your intentions may count for nothing.  You can avoid all sorts of family disputes and disappointments.

• You can choose your Executors – these are the people who carry out your wishes.
• You can dispose of your estate in the way you wish, and safeguard your dependents.
• If you are not married, but live with someone you may wish for your house or other items to go to them, rather than your next of kin.
• You can appoint Guardians for young children.
• You can give instructions about your funeral.
• Many people are able to take advantage of tax planning to save Inheritance Tax.
• You can even make provisions for your pets.

Keeping Your Will up to date

Your assets and liabilities can change, as can the circumstances of your family or other beneficiaries.  For instance, if your spouse or partner should have to go into nursing or residential care, you may wish to set up a Trust to provide income only, thus saving capital for your children.

"Do it yourself" Wills

Avoid the temptation to do it yourself.  The working in home made Wills is often ineffective in carrying out your exact wishes, and can result in setting up unnecessary trusts or only deal with only a part of your estate.

A professionally prepared Will ensures peace of mind for your family and especially yourself.  Proper planning means you'll have a simple, tailor-made, legal Will.  The cost is low considering the potential advantages to your Estate.  Our staff will quote you our current fees.  Should you have fairly complex financial affairs and need tax planning advice, expect to pay slightly more.

Who Keeps The Will?

We will keep it secure for you, free of charge.

Who should be appointed Executors?

You should appoint at least two executors, who are legally responsible for carrying out your wishes.  You and all your beneficiaries need to feel that the Estate is dealt with in a professional yet caring manner with commitment and responsibility.  We will discuss with you the most suitable appointment depending on your circumstances.

What Next?

Call any of our offices. For any specialist tax advice, it is recommended that you call Jane Baker at our Shirley Office.