Peter Levy of Astle Paterson’s Wills & Probate Department discusses the potential impact on the Estate of Prince as he died without having made a valid Will.
Peter said “Following the sudden and unexpected death of Prince, it become known that he had not made a Will.
Whilst Prince’s Estate will be dealt with in accordance with American law, which is of course different to the law of England & Wales, failing to set out your wishes as to what should happen on your death will cause complications which could otherwise have been avoided.
In England & Wales, when a person dies without having made a Will a state of intestacy occurs and how the deceased’s Estate is dealt with is determined by rules set out by Parliament.
This can often result in the deceased’s Estate being divided in a way which he or she would not have wanted – indeed should no living relatives be found, all of the Estate could be paid to the Crown.”
Peter continued “Some people believe they do not need to make a Will because the person that they would wish to inherit their Estate would do so automatically.
This is not necessarily the case – many people still believe, for example, that their “common-law” partner would inherit their Estate which is, simply, a myth.”
At Astle Paterson our experienced lawyers offer a fixed fee Will making service. Should you require any assistance in drafting a Will please contact Peter Levy of Astle Paterson’s Wills and Probate Department on either 01283 531366 or by way of email at plvey@astlepaterson.co.uk to discuss matters further.
