Will Creation Solicitors

Wills Explained

A will is a legal document that determines how a person's assets - including property, possessions, investments, and money - are distributed after their death. Without a will, assets automatically pass to a surviving spouse or civil partner, or if there isn't one, to the closest direct descendants or next-of-kin.

Anyone over 18 years old who is of sound mind can create a will, which becomes legally binding once drafted and signed. For a will to be valid, it must be signed by the person making the will (the testator) and witnessed by two people. While the will doesn't need to be registered with any specific authority to be valid, it can be lodged with the London Probate Department for additional security.

After someone dies, their will goes through probate - the process by which the deceased person's estate is administered. During probate, the executors of the estate distribute assets according to the wishes stated in the will. A Grant of Probate from court is typically required if the deceased leaves assets worth more than £5,000, or if the estate includes assets such as shares or land.

Will Creation Solicitors

While it's possible to write your own will, seeking professional legal help is advisable, particularly for large or complex estates or when there's a possibility the will might be contested. Will creation solicitors provide several essential services:

• Provide legal advice on drafting wills and structuring them to minimize inheritance tax
• Draft will documents using precise legal language to ensure they cannot be easily contested
• Safely store original will documents
• Act as executors of the will if required
• Assist with applying for a Grant of Probate
• Help structure the will to ensure assets are distributed according to your wishes
• Offer guidance on naming executors and trustees

Working with a solicitor helps ensure the will contains all necessary legal language and meets all requirements to be considered valid. They can also advise on complex situations such as business assets, overseas property, or providing for dependents with special needs.