Why Make a Will?

Whatever your age, it’s so important to have a valid, legal Will. If you die intestate – without a Will – the law will determine who inherits your Estate through the rules of intestacy.

If you wanted to leave special keepsakes to someone in particular, the law won’t take that into account. If you wanted to appoint Guardians for your children, your feelings might not be honoured.

Here’s a comprehensive breakdown of the reasons why you need to make a Will and why you should review your Will:

To protect your loved ones

Marriage renders earlier Wills invalid. If you are planning to marry, both you and your partner should take advice about making Wills before the marriage takes place. If you separate from your spouse, the provisions of your Will are not affected. Advice should be taken so that your Will reflects any new wishes.

If you are unmarried and live with a partner and die without making a Will, your partner will not automatically be entitled to anything from your Estate.

Tax efficient

Even though the value of assets passing between spouses can be generous, financial forward planning for both your deaths accordingly can minimise Inheritance Tax.

To provide for minor children

You need to consider who will be legally responsible for any minor children. What happens if your spouse remarries? If your children are to benefit, how and when do you wish them to receive their inheritance?

To preserve particular assets

Many families have verbal agreements that particular assets shall pass to specified individuals. This can only be a legally binding arrangement on death through your Will. You need legal advice to check whether the arrangement is feasible and whether it shall have any financial repercussions.

How to make a Will

If you have never written a Will, we recommend you get professional guidance to ensure its contents are legally sound. Should you have a Will, but it hasn’t been updated in some time, it would be wise to review it with your solicitor. Our professional advisers provide a sympathetic and efficient service, treating each case on an individual basis to ensure the solutions we offer are best for you personally.

Why choose Napthens?

• Cases handled with sensitivity and professionalism
• Highly experienced, specialists in Estate Planning and in inheritance disputes
• Clear advice tailored to your wishes and personal situation
• Specialists in complex personal and financial situations