Wills and Probate FAQ's

Here are the reasons why making a Will is worth it, the issues to consider and what to do next

Who should make a Will?

• Married or civil partners with assets they wish to leave to their family
• Divorced couples or dissolved civil partnerships
• Unmarried and same-sex couples living together
• Parents who wish to appoint a guardian to care for their children, in the event of their death.
• Homeowners
• Individuals who may want to leave gifts to friends, charities or others outside their family
• Anyone who wants to express wishes about their funeral arrangements, about organ donation or medical research.

...that adds up to most of us!

Why bother making a Will?

If you don't stipulate what you want to happen after you die - who gets what and what happens with your possessions and money - the law will do it for you! It may not bring the outcomes you want or expect. Only by making a Will can you leave money, property and possessions to friends, unmarried partners and charities.

You can't assume that your spouse or partner will automatically get everything if you don't make a Will. If you're not married, your partner is more than likely to lose out.

It's not just about money and assets. If children are left without parents, the law will decide who looks after them. You can use a Will to appoint guardians who you know will care for your children in the way you want.

The simple act of making a Will makes sure these uncertainties are covered - and you can choose who sorts out your affairs when you've gone.

Nothing to leave behind?

Consider the value of the things you do own: your home or other property, your possessions, shares and savings accounts. The value of an average-priced home is likely to get you close to the inheritance tax threshold.

Doing it yourself?

Wills are important legal documents and need to be professionally drawn up. If you prepare your own Will and it's not done properly, any problems will only be discovered after you die. That could mean your wishes will be overruled and your affairs dealt with in a way you never wanted.

Making a Will is too important to be left to another day. The sooner it's done, the sooner you can enjoy peace of mind.

Please contact EAD Solicitors on 0151 735 1000 for an appointment. We'll give you an idea of costs at the outset. If you require a home or hospital visit, this can also be arranged.