By making a Will you will ensure that your assets, no matter how small, are distributed in line with your wishes.
Write it down
Verbal instructions have no legal standing, so for your wishes to be carried out you must write your will down.
If you die without making a will your estate will be distributed to your living relatives according to a criteria laid down by law, regardless of your intentions. This is known as having died intestate. You can find out more information here.
Not many people in their late teens or early twenties write a will, but as long as you are over 18 it’s a good idea to put one together. It’s critical to write a will as soon as your start to possess assets, like savings or property, and when you get married or have dependents.
The impact of marriage
In English law, unmarried couples can sometimes hit problems when one partner dies. The surviving partner, unless designated as next of kin, does not have automatic right to arrange the funeral and could potentially miss out on various benefits or the partner’s pension. If no will has been made, the assets will automatically go to the blood relatives of the deceased, although it is possible to challenge this in court.
Who’s in charge when I die
Your next of kin and your executor(s) are in charge when you die. If you have no will or no close relatives there can sometimes be complications.
Should I make a will
By making a Will you will ensure that your assets, no matter how small, are distributed in line with your wishes.
Making a Will
A will sets out how your estate (your assets) should be distributed, and names an executor(s) to take care of this task. A will is only valid if your signature has been witnessed by 2 adults who are not beneficiaries of the will in anyway.
Using a Solicitor
It is a good idea to ask a professional for help when you are writing your will, and it is not very expensive to hire someone for this task. You will receive help putting together a will that is free of confusion, and will most clearly reflect what you desire.
