Writing a Will brings peace of mind that your estate will pass to your loved ones. When you meet with your Solicitor at Blackhurst Budd you will need to have considered:
Who you wish to name as Executors in your Will
Your Beneficiaries and the age at which children may inherit from your estate
Who you will appoint to act as a Guardian to look after any children under the age of 18
The value of your assets (property, savings and personal belongings)
Possible parties who could make a claim on your estate
Wishes on death e.g. burial or cremation
It is advisable to review your Will every three to five years as circumstances invariably change.
In the instance of marriage or a civil partnership this means that your Will is automatically revoked so it is very important to make a new Will once married or in expectation of the marriage. On separation or divorce if a property is “jointly owned” it is crucial that you seek advice and a new Will is made otherwise should you die your share would automatically pass to your former partner.
If you are living with a new partner have your made provision for them in your Will? If you have cohabited for longer than two years then your partner would have a legitimate claim under the Inheritance (Provision for Family and Dependants) Act 1975 upon your estate.
Another change may be the birth of a new baby or a grandchild. In the instance of a new baby it is wise to consider whom to appoint as Guardians in the event of anything happening to you.
If you do not make a Will this would result in your estate passing in accordance with the Intestacy Rules. This may result in people you may not have wanted benefitting from your estate.
Why use Blackhurst Budd?
Our experienced team will advise you comprehensively throughout the process. We have several members of STEP (The Society of Trust and Estate Practitioners), which is one of the most highly regarded accreditations for specialists in Wills, Trusts and Probate. The firm is also a member of the Law Society’s Wills and Inheritance Quality Scheme, which means we have agreed to meet a high standard of service as set out in their client charter.
We care about our elderly clients and understand it may be difficult to attend the office because of illness or other reason and we are happy to offer home visits to make the process easier for you.
To make your appointment please call 01253 629300.