Making a will

Some people put off preparing a Will because they feel the time isn’t right, they’re too young or they’re uncertain about costs. However, making a Will can provide you and your family with real security and peace of mind, allowing you to plan for the future safe in the knowledge that your loved ones are provided for should the unthinkable happen.

Whatever your circumstances, our specialist probate solicitors can provide you with individually tailored legal advice and advice on making a Will, whether it's an individual Will or a joint Will.

The important points to consider in how to make a will include:

• Who do you wish to appoint as your executors?
• Do you wish to make any specific bequests (legacies)?
• Would it be appropriate to include any trusts within your Will, for example to provide long term protection for your estate?
• Who do you wish to leave the rest of your estate to?
• What are the tax implications of your wishes and can this be made more efficient?

We will discuss these aspects with you and any other important considerations. We will take detailed information regarding your family and financial situation in order to establish any opportunities to explore or issues to be resolved.

We will advise you on the importance of the role of your executors and who you might appoint for this role. We will also advise of the implications of any gifts within your Will and how best to structure these from a legal and practical perspective.

We will discuss how you wish to leave the rest of your estate. In some cases long term tax efficiency and/or protection options may be available including the use of Will trusts. This will depend on the circumstances and we will be able to advise you on this.

We will also advise on the tax implications of your wishes, including when this is payable and how to prepare for any tax charge. Lifetime planning opportunities may be available to assist you with this and our solicitors can advise you if required.