Richard Cussell, Partner

Writing a will might not be at the top of your to-do list, but it is one of the most important steps you can take to protect your loved ones and ensure your wishes are followed. It is not just for the elderly or the wealthy; a will is for anyone who wants to stay in control of what happens to their estate when they are no longer here.

If you do not have a valid will, your estate, which includes everything you own, is distributed according to the rules of intestacy. These rules are fixed and arbitrary. They do not reflect how many of us live today. For example, a partner of 20 years who is not your legal spouse or civil partner would receive nothing. Instead, your estate could pass to distant relatives or be divided in ways that do not reflect your wishes or relationships.

The rules do not recognise blended families, stepchildren, or people you may feel responsible for. Without a will, you lose the chance to shape your estate around your personal circumstances and values.

Here are a few key reasons why making a will matters:

• You decide where everything goes.
  A will lets you choose who receives your money, property, and belongings, including sentimental items such as jewellery, photographs, or family heirlooms. This means your personal treasures go to the people who matter most to you.
• You make sure your children are cared for.
  If you have children under 18, your will allows you to name guardians who will care for them if something happens to you. Without this, the court will decide, and their choice may not align with your wishes.
• You choose who manages your estate.
  You can appoint executors and trustees. These are trusted individuals who will carry out your instructions and manage your affairs. This may include looking after the estate for your young children.  If you do not appoint them in a will, the law chooses for you, which may not be ideal.
• You can include funeral wishes.
  A will is a place to record your funeral preferences, such as burial or cremation and the type of service you would like. While these instructions are not legally binding, they offer valuable guidance and comfort to your family during a difficult time.
• You may reduce Inheritance Tax.
  As part of the will making process we can help you plan ahead and explore ways to reduce Inheritance Tax, meaning more of your estate can be passed on to the people you care about.

Writing a will gives you peace of mind. It ensures your wishes are clear, your loved ones are protected, and your estate is handled the way you would want.

If you would like advice on writing a will or wish to speak with one of our experts, please get in touch.