Making a new Will
Making a Will can provide certainty and peace of mind as to what will happen to you and your possessions when you pass away. We ensure that your Will is written in a way that reflects your wishes.
We will discuss your options with you and advise you of any issues we think you may wish to consider.
You will need to appoint an Executor in your Will to deal with your money and property (your estate) after you have passed away. We will explain the importance of the role of Executor to you and help you consider who to appoint as your Executor.
You may know exactly what you would like to happen to your money and property, or you may be unsure. We can lay out the options that you may wish to explore and advise you on the practical implications.
We will also advise you about matters that may affect your Will, such as inheritance tax and potential claims against your estate.
Updating your Will
There are a number of reasons why you may wish to update your existing Will. These could include, e.g. a change in your circumstances, the birth of a new family member(s) you wish to benefit, a change of executor or a new legacy.
Sometimes we can use a codicil to make small changes, but in other cases it may be more effective to make a new Will.
Clients should note that marriage invalidates a Will, so it is essential to make a new Will if you marry or remarry.
Divorce does not invalidate a Will, but it may fundamentally change the way in which it takes effect – the Will takes effect as if your former spouse had died when you were divorced.
Living Wills & Advance Decisions
A Living Will sets out your wishes for what you would like to happen to you if you are unable to make your own decisions when the time comes, e.g. refusal of medical treatment.
You may be concerned that in old age, or following a serious illness or accident, you may be kept alive at a time when you have lost your mental capacity. An Advance Directive or Living Will expresses your wishes to your doctor should this occur.