Wills
Who needs a will?
Everyone. Absolutely everybody should make a will.
Why do I need a will?
It is vitally important if you want your estate to go to who you want it to go to, along with your wishes being taken into consideration upon your death. After all it is your 'Last Will and Testament', not anybody else’s.
I don't need a will, I have nothing to leave...
This is the most common reason many people believe they do not need to make a will.
Do you have any children? Do you own a property? A car? A business? Have any savings/investments? Personal belongings you would like to pass along? If any of these are yes you should be making a will.
What happens if i die without a will?
Laws of Intestacy (No Will) would apply. If you die without a valid Will, then the Government will decide who will inherit your estate in accordance with the Laws of Intestacy.
The 'Rules of Intestacy' will divide your estate up and this may not be to the people that you intended or wished to benefit.
If you live with someone, even if you are married or in a civil partnership or you have step- children, they may not automatically inherit your estate.
We would suggest that when considering the content and writing of a Will, that you discuss your needs with us. We will take all of your concerns, wishes and relevant personal & financial circumstance on board. Then draft them into a legal document; Your Last Will and Testament.
Benefits of having a will
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You decide who benefits. Ensure your estate is distributed the way you'd like. There is no guarantee if you haven't got a will. Having a will helps minimise any family disagreements about your estate that may arise. It determines the “who, what, and when” of your estate.
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Choose the Guardians of your children. Make sure your children are looked after and are raised by the person you wish rather than letting the courts decide.
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Make gifts. You can make specific gifts to family, friends or your favourite charity.
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Avoid a lengthy probate process. Help to enable your estate to be settled quickly and with ease.
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Don't make your family pay more than necessary. Minimise Inheritance Tax on your estate, so giving more to your chosen beneficiaries rather than the Government.
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Protect your children. Create trusts for children to protect their inheritance until an age you are comfortable with.
On behalf of APS Legal & Associates Ltd, Head office: Worksop Turbine Innovation Centre, Shireoaks Triangle Business Park, Coach Close, Worksop, Nottinghamshire, S81 8APAPS Legal & Associates is a member of the Institute of Professional Willwriters. APS Legal & Associates complies with Trading Standards Institute Approved IPW Code of Practice.c Law Limited
