Will Writing

Why do I need a Will?

When someone dies without leaving a Will, or has one that is invalid, it causes significant problems and sometimes disputes within families. For many people, a Basic Will is all that is required to put your affairs in order. We can help you ensure that all your wishes are carried out when the time comes, giving you and your loved ones peace of mind.

Unlike many Will writers, we explain everything in plain English since many people find the language used in legal documents quite difficult to understand. All our work is insured and even after a document has been signed, we will continue to offer free advice for life if you need any further help with your documents. This is particularly helpful if your family circumstances change and you need to alter your Will.

Over 60% of UK adults don’t have a Will. Don’t be one of them. Contact us today to find out how we can help you.

Different types of Will

  • If you are single, you will need a single basic Will
  • If you are part of a couple, you and your spouse/partner will need mirror basic Wills. This means your Wills reflect each other’s – everything is left to the surviving spouse/partner on the first death and then to the agreed beneficiaries on the second death
  • If you and your spouse/partner have different intentions, then two single basic Wills will be needed
  • We will advise you on the best route to take once we understand your situation

What is an Executor and why do I need one?

You will need to name an Executor to carry out the instructions in your Will. It should therefore be someone you trust who is over the age of 18. They should be able to act on your behalf and have the physical and mental capability to talk to companies over the phone, visit office premises, write letters and fill out forms etc.

Alternatively, a professional person such as solicitor or an accountant can be used but this will generally result in significant extra costs. We can act as a professional executor if required - this is often a more cost-effective option as there are no hidden fees involved.

Why do I need to name a Trustee as well?

A Trustee is someone who is put in charge of managing any Trusts you put in your Will. For example if one of the Beneficiaries in your Will is under 18 when you die, the Trustee will be responsible for ensuring their inheritance is looked after until they come of age.  

It’s normal for the same person to be appointed both Trustee and Executor but that can alter according to personal wishes and circumstances.

Guardians

If you are a parent or have parental responsibility for a child, you need to specify who should become the legal guardian(s) of your children if they are under the age of 18 when you die. Otherwise the local authority will decide what happens to them and their decision may not be the one that you would have wanted.

Beneficiaries

Beneficiaries are the family, friends, charities and organisations who you choose to inherit your assets. Without a Will in place, the beneficiaries that you would have chosen may not inherit anything, and there is a risk that others to whom you are not so close will benefit. This is because of ‘intestacy’ which is a ‘pecking order’ laid down in law. This determines who inherits, and in what proportions, if you die without a Will. So depending on your situation, all or part of your estate may go to your spouse, civil partner or your blood relatives.

This means that some family members, friends, partners and even stepchildren stand to inherit nothing. In addition, there may be sentimental items such as a family heirloom or a cash gift that will not find their way to the intended recipient unless you specifically name them in your Will.