Q. WHY SHOULD I MAKE A WILL
In order for your assets to pass to the people you wish to benefit.
Without a Will your assets are distributed in accordance with a set of rules laid down by law and may not go to those you wish to benefit from your passing. In a worse case scenario, if you have no living relatives, your assets could end up going to the state.
Q. WHAT IS AN EXECUTOR
An Executor is the person responsible for carrying out the terms of the Will after your death.
Executors duties are very onerous, therefore careful consideration should be given before you decide on who to appoint as Executors. stevensdrake have many years of experience in acting as Executors and are happy to be appointed if you so wish.
Q. CAN I WRITE MY OWN WILL
Many people make DIY Wills to try to keep the cost down. In many cases such homemade documents result in extra legal work and therefore additional costs following the death of a Testator.
Ambiguous wording could result in expensive disputes. By instructing a Solicitor who specialises in Will drafting they will be able to draw up a Will that reflects your needs and states your intentions. Importantly, this will minimise the risk of the Will being challenged after your death.
Q. SHOULD I REVIEW MY WILL
Your Will should be reviewed on a regular basis, probably every 3-5 years. If your circumstances alter i.e. Marriage, Divorce or birth of a child, it is important your Will is changed to reflect this.
Q. HOW DO I CHANGE MY WILL
Your Will can be changed at any time by either making a fresh Will, or for minor amendments, by means of a Codicil.
Published - February 2010
