Will Writing In Bromley
What Will Happen If You Died Without A Will?
Let Us Provide You With A Professionally Drafted Will
There’s a lot to consider when writing your will. We’re here to guide you through the process, draft your will and make sure it is kept safely until it is required.
Having a Will Is A Good Idea
Having a will is important because of how it gives you control over what happens with your assets. In addition, having your affairs in order saves a significant amount of stress at a challenging time.
Always Get The Right Advice
There’s a lot to consider when drafting a will and the right advice will make sure you have thought through everything as well as ensuring your document is executed properly.
Why Do I Need A Will?
I'm married
If you don’t have a will, your spouse or civil partner may not automatically inherit all of your estate.
I have children from a previous relationship
If you’re married, children from a previous relationship may end up inheriting nothing.
I am a property owner
You will want to specify who you would like to inherit or live in your property after you have passed away. You may also want to considering protecting your share against care costs.
I have new grandchildren
You might want to add your grandchild to your will do they inherit something from you directly.
I have a partner
If you don’t have a will, the law treats you and your partner as being single. Without a will, your partner would receive nothing.
I own a business
If you own a business, you will want to consider having the right arrangements in place so there is someone who will be able to make sure operations continue uninterrupted.
Got Questions?
What is a will?
A Will is a legal document where a person over 18 appoints Executors to administer his estate after death, and directs the manner it is to be distributed to the beneficiaries he or she specifies.
Why should I make a will?
Making a will is important as dying without one means that you leave important decisions up to a local court and your state’s laws. You also won’t have a say in who receives your property and other assets.
Can I make my own will?
Yes, you can make your own will, however there are significant risks in doing so. This is because any mistakes will not be discovered until after your death giving no chance to rectify them. This could mean emotional upset and financial loss for your family
How often should I review my will?
It’s advised to review your will every 3-5 years, however if there are any major changes you will want to consider doing so earlier. This could include marriage, divorce, birth of a child and changes to estate planning requirements.
How long is a will valid?
A will remains valid for an unlimited period of time unless it is revoked.
What about any companies I own?
If you are a director in a limited company you will need to think about who you (or your fellow directors) would want your shares to pass to in the event of your death. Without a formal arrangement in place, the shares would fall into the deceased’s estate and would more than likely go to his or her family who could then end up with a controlling share and a say in how the company is run.
Who should I appoint as executors?
You can appoint as many Executors as you want, but a maximum of 4 can act when the time comes. You must appoint people you absolutely trust to carry out your wishes and it is wise for them to live locally.
What is a trust?
A trust is a legal entity set up by your will that comes into effect upon the death of the person creating the will. They are often used to provide tax benefits or asset protection.
What about leaving someone out?
You can choose to leave someone out of your will, however in the event that any dependants unable to maintain themselves or it is found that you have not fairly provided for your spouse or civil partner (or even an ex-spouse who has not remarried), the Court can alter your Will, under the Inheritance Act 1995, if it is challenged.
What does my estate include?
Your estate includes everything that you own when you die which you are beneficially entitled to give away. This could include things such as; properties, bank accounts, personal possessions, investments and any businesses you own.
What effect do marital changes have?
If you get married or remarried after you have made a will it is automatically revoked unless is specifically details that it was made in contemplation of the marriage. Seperation has no effect and in the event of divorce, any appointment (eg Executor) or gifts in favour of your former spouse / civil partner will fail (unless the Will states otherwise).
Where should I keep my will?
There is no requirement to keep your wi in any given place, however you will want to tell executors where it is. It’s also not advisable to keep it in a bank of safe deposit box as it may be difficult to access without a court order. The recommended place is with your solicitor as even keeping it at home may lead to it being damaged by things such as fire, flood or even ‘vanishing’ should someone not like what it says.
We Believe In Taking The Time To Help You Make An Informed Decision
Initial Consultation
Face to face, over the phone or online
Advice & Drafting
We discuss and draft your documents together
Documents Finalised
Once you are happy, you sign the necessary documentation
Submission
Where required, documents are submitted and stored safely