23/06/2026
Afternoon all
I wanted to take a moment to explain why having a valid Will in place is one of the most important steps you can take to protect your loved ones and ensure your wishes are carried out.
Without a Will, your estate will be distributed according to the Rules of Intestacy.
These are strict legal rules that determine who inherits your assets, regardless of your personal wishes!
This can often lead to unintended consequences, particularly for unmarried partners, stepchildren, close friends, or charities you may wish to benefit.
Having a comprehensive Will allows you to:
Decide exactly who inherits your estate and in what proportions.
Appoint trusted Executors to administer your affairs.
Nominate guardians for any children under the age of 18 and to nominate trustees to be in charge of monies until a suitable age for children to inherit. ‘Most commonly ages 21 or 25 years of age’ should the worst happen.
Nominate Trustees for Grandchildren to inherit certain amounts of monies / specific gifts.
Protect assets through trusts where appropriate.
Help minimise the risk of family disputes after your death.
Ensure your funeral wishes are recorded.
Provide peace of mind that your loved ones will be looked after according to your wishes.
Life circumstances can change significantly over time through marriage, divorce, having children or grandchildren, buying property, or changes in financial circumstances.
Reviewing and maintaining an up-to-date Will helps ensure it continues to reflect your current wishes.
Many people assume their family will automatically inherit everything, but this is not the case.
Having a comprehensive Will in place removes uncertainty and can make an already difficult time much easier for those left behind.