Why should I write a will?

A Last Will and Testament is a legal document that specifies how you want your assets to be distributed after your death. It also allows you to appoint guardians for your minor children through our guardian appointment services and specify your funeral wishes.

Why Should You Write a Will?

1. Control Over Your Assets: Writing a Last Will and Testament ensures that your assets go to the people or organizations you choose. Without a will, your estate will be distributed according to the laws of intestacy, which may not reflect your wishes.

2. Protection for Your Family: A will provides clear instructions, helping to prevent disputes among family members. It can provide financial security for your loved ones by specifying who gets what. Additionally, by incorporating a Will-based Trust, you can protect your assets for your partner and future generations, preventing sideways disinheritance.

3. Appointment of Guardians: If you have minor children, a Last Will and Testament allows you to name legal guardians to care for them if you pass away. This ensures your children are looked after by trusted individuals, rather than leaving these decisions to social services.

4. Funeral Wishes: You can specify your funeral preferences in your will, ensuring that your wishes are respected and easing the burden on your family during a difficult time.

5. Minimizing Legal Complications: A well-drafted will can simplify the probate process, making it easier and quicker for your executors to distribute your estate according to your wishes. This benefits both you and your family, providing peace of mind knowing your affairs are in order. Giving clear instructions via your will can also reduce stress and conflict among family members during what will be a very challenging time for them.

How to Write a Will Legally with our Advisors:

1. Start with a free, no-obligation meeting with one of our expert advisors. They will get to know you and your family circumstances, inform you of your Inheritance Tax Liability, and discuss your needs and priorities regarding estate planning services. This includes how you want your estate to be divided, trust protection, guardianship of your minor children (if applicable), and any specific gifts and funeral wishes. You will also need to choose Executors/Trustees and Legal Guardians (if applicable), who are responsible for carrying out the instructions in your Last Will and Testament.

2. Next, we will meet to take your formal instructions, confirming your exact wishes and gathering the necessary information. We will then draft your will and send it to you in the post within 14 days.

3. To ensure the will is legal and valid, we offer a free supervised signing or "attestation" meeting with you and your two witnesses, scheduled at a convenient time for all parties involved, ensuring all legal formalities are followed to withstand any potential scrutiny or challenge in the future.

4. After signing the will, we provide a pre-paid envelope for you to return your documents so we can securely store the will. This service is offered by DL Wills LLP through our Maintenance and Storage Service, ensuring your originals are safe.

5. Review and Update: Regularly review your will and update it as needed, especially after major life events like marriage (which revokes your Will), divorce, or the birth of a child. We recommend reviewing your documents every 3-5 years, and at DL Wills LLP, you can enjoy unlimited reviews and free-of-charge changes as life events occur.

Writing a Last Will and Testament is a crucial step in ensuring your wishes are respected and your loved ones are cared for after your death. It provides peace of mind, financial security for your family, and minimizes potential legal complications. Taking the time to draft a legally valid will is an essential part of responsible financial and personal planning.

Any questions? Please email: liz@dlwills.co.uk or call: 07724314824