Wills and Testament

Even if we don't like talking about it, death is a certainty. But we are currently living in a time where the majority of the population are better off than previous generations and most people will have some assets at the time of their death. Wills give instructions that are legally enforceable, on the appointment of an executor and on how assets should be distributed.

When a person dies someone has to deal with their estate (i.e. money, property, investments and possessions) by collecting in all the money, paying any debts and distributing what is left to those people entitled to it. Probate is the court's authority given to a person or persons to administer a deceased person's estate where there is a will.

Many people don't have a will because they think it's too expensive, complicated, are nervous about doing it or don't think they need one. But it's simpler and cheaper than you think with the help of Proctor Moore solicitors to make the process easy and painless.

Every day someone in the UK dies alone and intestate (in other words without a will). When a will hasn't been made you run the risk of leaving a trail of stress, cost and even family feuds for those left behind. The question of ‘who gets what' can lead to drawn-out and expensive legal disputes.

There is a lot of misinformation as to what actually happens to your estate when you die.

If you die without a will the law decides how your estate is distributed:

• Spouses and children do not automatically receive your entire estate
• Cohabitating partners, but not legally married or in a civil partnership, are not recognised by the law and may be left with nothing.
• Parents, brothers, sisters and other close relatives may have a claim - including the family home
• If you have no surviving relatives, everything could pass to the Crown.

Even if you don't have a family, without a will those you may have liked to benefit such as friends and good causes will end up with nothing.

Possibly you haven't drawn up a will because you are married with children, mortgaged to your limits, and really have very few assets that could be passed on. Well, what about your children? Who would take care of them if you and your spouse were to die together?

For that reason it is important that everyone sets out formal instructions on how they would like their estate to be dealt with after death. If you die without making a will, your assets may not go to the people you want them to. Furthermore, you may not adequately protect your estate from inheritance tax. To ensure that your wishes are carried out you need to make a will.

You have taken care of your family all of your life, Proctor Moore Solicitors can make sure that continues by providing you with expert advice on all aspects pertaining to making a will or arranging your estate.

Standard Will
Fixed Fee £150.00 (excluding VAT and disbursements)