Why make a will?

Whatever age you are, however wealthy or healthy you feel, you should make a will. Many people think they don’t need to because the law will “do the right thing” by their estate. Sadly this can be a mistake. Currently, for instance, stepchildren are not recognised under law, and a co-habiting partner or second spouse might be left with nothing, not even their home.

Making a will means that you can have the peace of mind that your estate is passed on exactly as you choose, and will protect those you care about from lengthy legal wrangles.

After providing for their loved ones many people like to help their favourite charity, and gifts to charity written into your will are free from tax – so your cause benefits more.

Why change your will?

It is wise to review your will every few years to make sure that it still reflects your true wishes.

Marriage, divorce, children, getting a windfall…. all of these can affect your will. Both marriage and divorce cancel the arrangements you have made in your Will, and new children, relations or friends may need to be included.

You may, of course, simply change your mind about the people and causes you want to include in your Will, or the ways in which you want them to benefit.

Small changes are made easily and cheaply through a “codicil” – a legal instruction to change or add to your existing Will.