Everyone accepts that they should have a will
They may not be sure why – but they know that it’s the right thing to do. The trouble is that most people don’t get around to making a will because they don’t want to think about – and make decisions about – the worst things that can happen.
If a person doesn’t make a will – then all those difficult decisions are left to someone else. That someone else might be an official who simply does what the law says he or she must do – and that can often cause real distress for those involved.
If there is no will then the law of intestacy applies – setting out who gets what. This is often quite at odds with what the person who has died would have wanted.
Making a will is one of the most caring things a person can do.
Giving instructions for a will involves a discussion of circumstances and objectives. Considering what assets are owned and how they’re owned is a natural part of the process. Whatever is discussed is in complete confidence.
A will:
- Provides certainty at a difficult time.
- Ensures that assets go where they should
- Can be used to appoint the right person or people to look after the administration of the estate
- Helps protect assets so as to make better inheritances
- Enables the appointment of guardians.
- Avoids excess taxation being paid