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Making will: what is important and what might not be...

 

A new DIY will making kit went on sale in March in 7,000 newsagents, costing £4.99, less than a packet of cigarettes. It contains instructions on formalities, but it doesn’t answer important questions you may have, for example

• How do I ensure my choice of guardian for my children will be known if I die?
• I think my property puts my estate above the limit for inheritance tax. How much will that be, who pays it, and is there any way of helping my family so it doesn’t have to go up for sale?
• I am getting married but I am happy with the will I have already. Will the marriage change anything?
• Can I make provision for my pets after I die?
• I want my wife to inherit my money but what if we died together in an accident?
• Can I say what I want done with my body or that I don’t want a religious funeral in my will? Is that binding?
• What happens if the executor I name isn’t able to act or doesn’t want to; can I name a substitute or should I have two or more executors?
• I want to leave individual items like my car and valuable paintings to different people but I keep changing these things – is there a simple way I can update my will without making a new one each time?
• My home is in joint names but I am thinking of leaving my husband, and I want my children to have everything if I die. Can my will ensure that will happen?
• I have decided to give my money to my church, as my son has enough money and never visits me. Can he challenge that?
• Is there any way I can keep the contents of my will and the amount of my estate a secret after I die, as I have read wills are open for inspection?

Our wills and probate department can answer your questions and put your mind at rest. We will estimate our charges for you after your first visit. Think about what is at stake for your family, friends, or your charities. Wouldn’t you rather have experienced, professional advice than a £4.99 stab at it yourself, and cross your fingers it’s all ok?

Hope Libersohn