Peter Levy, Solicitor in Astle Paterson’s Wills & Probate department discusses the risks associated with leaving close family members and others out of your Will altogether.
Peter said, “When making a Will the possibility of close members of your family or others living with you making a claim against your estate after your death should always be considered.
You may believe that you can simply leave your assets to whomsoever you choose. However in certain circumstances a close member of your family or others living with you can ask a Court to make provision for them out of your estate if you have not reasonably provided for them.
In leaving family members or others out of your Will you may leave the executors of your estate or your family exposed to distressing and potentially costly claims.
It is therefore wise to ensure first that you have made a Will and secondly to ensure that the Will is reviewed regularly to take into account changes in circumstances and all avenues are discussed with those preparing your Will.”
Peter concluded “At Astle Paterson we are able to discuss these issues with you so that you can be made aware of the possibility of a successful claim being made against your estate after your death and to enable you to take account of that possibility when you are setting out your wishes in your Will.”
Should you have any queries relating to the above then please contact Peter Levy of Astle Paterson’s Wills & Probate department on 01283 531366 or by way of email at plevy@astlepaterson.co.uk.
