Will Drafting
In the absence of a Will, your assets will be distributed in line with the intestacy rules. These rules lay down a rigid method of distribution of your estate which takes no account of your wishes or your family circumstances. This may produce unforeseen circumstances which you would not have wished for.
If you are married and die without having made a Will it is not certain that your spouse will inherit all your assets under the intestacy rules.
If you are an unmarried couple and you die without having left a Will your partner may not receive anything. Your entire estate is likely to be divided between children or other relatives. This may not be what you wished for under any circumstances.
If you have been divorced or are separated and die without having made a Will, your position will be unclear and if you remain technically married it may be that part of your estate may even be passed to your estranged wife under certain circumstances. A Will allows you to make it clear exactly who you wish to benefit from your estate. Also if you have made a Will in the past and you have then divorced, your previous Will is no longer valid and you will need to make a new Will to reflect your change of circumstances.
If you have children then by making a Will you can ensure that the Courts are aware of who you would wish to care for your children in the event of your death. You can also put in place trusts to protect them financially for the future and ensure that they receive their inheritance and it may be possible to create that trust so that they receive it at the most appropriate age.
To discuss wills and probate for your estate and your family needs in providing a Will please contact us.
