Helen Vorley, of Astle Paterson’s Wills & Probate department, explains why you should consider making a Will.
If you do not have a Will when you die then the law will decide the manner in which your money, possessions and property are divided – this may not necessarily be what you would have wished for.
A Will is a document by which you appoint others to carry out your intentions after your death – including the manner in which your money, possessions and property are to be distributed between your loved ones.
It is advisable that legal advice is obtained when making a Will; this will ensure that your Will is legally valid and that it is interpreted on your death in the way which you intended it to be. This is especially so if you believe that your Will may not be not straightforward (for example if you have a business, or if there are several family members who may make a claim against your Estate on your death.) Further, legal advice can be crucial when seeking to minimise your exposure to Inheritance Tax.
Even if you do have a Will, it is advisable that you review your Will at least every 5 years or after any major change in your life – if you get married (or divorced or separated), have a child or purchase a property.
To make matters easier for you, Astle Paterson offer a fixed fee Will making process (details of which are available on request.)
Please contact Helen Vorley of our Wills & Probate department on 01283 531366 or by way of email to hvorley@astlepaterson.co.uk.
