Wills and Probate

With Your Legal GP

It is highly recommended that you make a Will. This will help your family and friends to deal with the practicalities of dealing with your estate (your money and property) at what is a stressful and emotional time. If you die without having made a Will, your estate falls under the intestacy rules. This means that it may not be distributed according to your wishes and can cause upset between those who survive you.

Important Will Considerations

• Regular reviews: Review your Will from time to time, particularly if you divorce, as a will does not become invalid once the divorce is finalised. However, if your former spouse is mentioned in the will they will be treated as if they died before you and will not inherit.
• Marriage effects: If you marry, your existing Will automatically be revoked unless you have specified that you intend to marry. If you marry then die, without having made a new Will or a Will in contemplation you will die intestate and the law will decide who inherits your estate.
• Life changes: If you have children or invest in property your Will should be updated to reflect these changes as If you fail to update your Will you might end up paying more Inheritance Tax than is necessary or leave out potential beneficiaries.
• Avoiding disputes: If you fail to update your Will it may ultimately lead to disputes with family and friends who had expected to inherit from you, which may escalate into expensive court costs and a tarnish on your legacy.

Your Legal GP can help you write or update your Will in accordance with your current wishes.