Making a will protects your loved ones from having to deal with legal issues and decisions at a difficult time. Our experienced Wills, Trusts and Estates team are waiting to guide you through this straightforward process.
What is a Will?
A Will is a legal document which enables you to decide how your estate should be distributed in the event of your death.
Why should I make one?
Death can occur at any time and it is wise to be prepared. Even if you don’t consider yourself to have very much to leave, you probably have certain personal belongings which you would like particular people to have.
Having a Will means you can leave your family with full information on how you wish your estate to be distributed. Without a Will the administration of your estate is dealt with in accordance with specific legal guidelines.
What kind of things does a Will contain?
By making a Will you can:
- Instruct who should deal with your estate after you die. If you don't have a Will, someone who you do not wish to could end up deciding what should be done with your money and possessions.
- Ensure your dependants are properly provided for.
- Decide who should get what and when. Most of us have specific people in mind who we would like our belongings to go to. However, without the safeguard of a Will, this cannot be guaranteed.
- Appoint legal guardians for your children who could otherwise end up in care until a decision is finalised.
- Let everyone know what you would like in terms of funeral arrangements.
- Protect those you love from having to deal with legal issues and decisions they would rather not have to contemplate at this time.
What are the other benefits?
- A properly planned will can substantially reduce the amount of tax payable after your death.
- It will ensure your money is directed exactly where you want it to go.
- Where the beneficiaries are young it will ensure that their inheritance is protected until they are able to handle it themselves.
What else do we offer?
- In addition we can regularly review your Will and your personal circumstances.
- We can recommend setting up a Power of Attorney, so your financial affairs are managed correctly and as you would wish, if you are unable to do so yourself.
- We also advise on "Living Wills" which can be important if you become incapable of making a decision regarding your medical care and treatment.
Still not sure?
A Will is a very important document. As making one is a relatively easy exercise, there is no excuse not to be protected, especially if you have recently become a homeowner, a parent or a grandparent. Contact us today for more information or to make an appointment.
