It is estimated that around 70% of the adult population don't have a Will. This is despite the well-publicised dangers of not having a Will.
Without a Will, the law will decide who will inherit your estate (the beneficiaries), who will look after any minor children (the guardian), and who will administer your estate (the executors). Making a Will allows you to make all of these decisions for yourself, as well as:
- Providing for an unmarried partner, step-children, friends or charities who are NOT provided for by the general law
- Ensuring that your estate will be administered as quickly as possible
- Protecting your estate for future generations. For example, the beneficiaries of your estate may be in the process of a divorce or bankruptcy, or in receipt of means-tested benefits, or be incapable for whatever reason of dealing with inheritance
- Protecting your estate for future generations from the unnecessary payment of Inheritance Tax - as set out in our section on Wealth Preservation and Tax Planning - or Care Home Fees
For information on what needs to be considered when making a Will, please see our Wills Guide.
You should also consider signing a Lasting Power of Attorney to cover the possibility of becoming incapable of making decisions for yourself during your lifetime.
To make a Will or Lasting Power of Attorney, you can choose from the following:
Book an appointment...in the office, at your home or online
Request information on Wills or Powers of Attorney
