Writing a Will isn’t just for the elderly. It’s for anyone who wants to make sure their money, home, and belongings go to the right people. It also helps avoid stress for your family later on.
Here’s what you need to know.
What is a Will?
A Will is a legal document. It sets out who gets what when you die. You can name people you trust to carry out your wishes. These people are called executors.
Why it matters
If you don’t have a Will, the law decides who gets what (The Rules of Intestacy – some people call this a Government Will). That might not match what you want. It may also cause delays, extra costs, and arguments.
A Will gives you control. You decide who gets your home, savings, or personal items. You can also name guardians for your children. Wills aren’t always about material possessions.
Who can write a Will?
Anyone over 18 can write a Will, as long as they understand what they’re doing. You can write it yourself, but mistakes are common. If it’s not done properly, it might not be valid.
Working with a legal professional reduces the risk. It means your Will is clear and follows the law. If you have written it yourself, reach out to us and we’ll check it for you and point out anything which might cause problems when the time comes, by which point, it would be too late to make any changes.
What should be in a Will?
Here’s what you’ll usually include:
- Who your executors are
- Who should inherit your money, property, and belongings
- What happens if someone you name dies before you
- Guardians for children under 18
- Any funeral wishes (these aren’t legally binding, but they can guide your family)
Common mistakes
Here are a few things that often go wrong:
- Not signing it properly
- Not updating it after big life changes (like divorce or having children)
- Not telling people where it’s stored
- Leaving out important people (which can lead to legal disputes)
When should you update your Will?
Whenever your life changes. Examples:
- You get married or divorced (both have an effect on your Will)
- You have a child
- Someone you named in your Will dies
- Your financial situation changes
- You move house
Even if nothing changes, review your Will every few years.
Where should you keep it?
Store it somewhere safe. Tell your executors where it is. You can also store it with a solicitor or a Will storage service. Don’t hide it away , if no one can find it, it’s no use.
Do you need a solicitor?
You don’t have to use one, but it’s often worth it. A solicitor like us, can help you avoid mistakes and make sure everything is legally sound. This is especially useful if your situation is complex, for example, if you have children from a previous relationship or own a business.
Writing a Will isn’t difficult. But it needs to be done properly. It’s not just a piece of paper, it’s peace of mind for the people you care about.
If you’re not sure where to start, reach out to us and Tomi will be happy to provide guidance.
