Why Making a Will Is Necessary
If you do not make a Will, the law will determine who inherits your assets according to strict intestacy rules. These rules do not recognise unmarried partners, step-children, or any specific wishes you may have regarding your children, pets, or property. By creating a valid Will, you can take control and ensure your wishes are followed.
Reasons to Make a Will
- Decide who inherits your assets
A Will allows you to specify who will receive your property, savings, shares, and personal possessions after your death. Without one, these decisions will be made according to the law, which may not align with your intentions. - Appoint guardians for children under 18
If you have young children, a Will enables you to appoint guardians who will care for them. This avoids potential family disputes and ensures you have a say in who raises your children. - Provide financial security for your children
You can use your Will to set up trusts or allocate funds to support your children until they reach adulthood, ensuring they are financially secure. - Plan for the care of your pets
Your Will can include provisions for the care of your pets and you can designate someone you trust to look after them. - Protect unmarried partners
The law does not provide for long-term unmarried partners. Without a Will, your partner could be left with nothing, making it vital to account for them in your estate planning. - Manage taxes and assets
Properly drafted Wills can help minimise inheritance tax and ensure your family is not burdened with unnecessary financial complications after your death. - Leave money to charities or causes
If you wish to support specific charities or causes, a Will allows you to leave donations as part of your legacy. - Specify funeral wishes
You can outline your preferences for your funeral and what happens to your body, giving your loved ones clarity during a difficult time.
The Risks of Not Making a Will
Without a valid Will, your loved ones may face uncertainty, disputes, and financial difficulties. Protect your family and ensure your wishes are respected by creating a Will that reflects your intentions.
Frequently Asked Questions About Making a Will
It’s advisable to make a Will as soon as you own property, have savings, or start a family. Major life events — such as getting married, having children, or purchasing property — are ideal times to create or update your Will. Discover how to update your Will after significant life changes here.
If you die without a Will, your estate will be distributed according to intestacy rules. This means the law, not you, decides who inherits your assets, potentially excluding people you care about.
While it’s possible to create a Will yourself, using a solicitor ensures it is legally valid and accurately reflects your wishes. A solicitor can also help minimise inheritance tax and address complex family or financial situations. Learn about our Will-writing services here.
You should review your Will every few years or after significant life events, such as marriage, divorce, or the birth of a child. Read our article to learn more about the importance of updating your Will.
Making a Will starts with assessing your assets and deciding how you want them distributed. At Burt Brill & Cardens, our solicitors can guide you through the process, ensuring your wishes are respected. Contact us to get started.
David Edwards
David has served as a Director of the firm since 1986. In addition to his position as Managing Director, he also leads the Private Client team.
David is a member of The Society of Estate Practitioners (STEP), an international organisation for Trust and Estate specialists. He is also a member of the Agricultural Law Association, an Ambassador for the University of Brighton, and a former President of the Sussex Law Society.
Read More About DavidAn outstanding, efficient, personable and friendly service provided in documenting wills and Power of Attorney documents. The expertise of the solicitor was exceptional as was her patience in guiding us through the process and advising us on all aspects of the legal documents.
Making a Will
When should I update my will?
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Have you considered what will happen to your digital assets on your death? All those e-mails you have sent and received as well as important and sentimental information and precious photographs stored on social networks and in cloud storage. Not all digital assets can be inherited and your precious data… Learn MoreTrusted Sussex solicitors for over 130 years
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