Why you need a Will

If you don’t have a Will, you’re not alone. It is estimated that nearly 60% of adults in the UK don’t have one – a statistic we are very keen to improve!  A Will is a legal document that outlines your final wishes and gives your loved ones clear instructions on how to settle your affairs when you die.  There are many reasons why you need a will including:

Ensure that your wishes are carried out: By creating a Will, you can ensure that your assets are distributed according to your wishes after your death. If you die without a Will, your assets will be distributed according to the law, which may not align with your desires.

Name an executor: A Will allows you to name an executor, the person responsible for carrying out your wishes and distributing your assets. This person will also be responsible for paying off any debts and taxes you owe.

Choose a guardian for your children: If you have minor children, a will allows you to name a guardian to take care of them if you and your spouse die before they reach adulthood.

Minimise family disputes: A Will can help minimise family disputes and legal battles that can arise when someone dies without a clear plan for distributing their assets.

Protect your assets: A will can also be used to protect your assets from being used to pay off any outstanding debts or taxes you owe.

How Can We Help?

Our advice is don’t wait to create a will—it’s an important document that everyone should have.  Hunton & Garget can guide you through this process and offer free storage of your Will at our Richmond office.

One thing we do urge you to do before choosing a will writer is to check they they are WIQS accredited – this means they have been awarded The Law Society’s best practice quality mark for wills and estate administration advice…you can find out more about the WIQS scheme and its importance here (link to Lisa’s video)

Our services and fees can be viewed here and we also have a section on our website offering clarity on the most frequently asked questions regarding questions regarding Wills which can be found here.

As always, we are happy to help you with any queries you may have.