Wills & Probate
WILLS SOLICITORS WEST LONDON & PROBATE LAWYERS WEST LONDON
Why make a will ?
Over fifty percent of the adult population in the United Kingdom has not made a will. Whether you are young or old, healthy or unhealthy, we believe it is important that you have a will. Having a will allows you to:
- Choose who will receive what
- Avoid dying intestate where government rules dictate how your estate is distributed, which naturally leads to family disputes
- Make significant inheritance tax savings, so your loved ones to enjoy the full benefits of your estate
- Choose legal guardians for any children younger than 18
- Choose who will be the executors of your estate
- Give gifts to charities
- Make sure family heirlooms are preserved within the family and passed down according to tradition
- Set up trusts so your grandchildren/children below the age of 18 can benefit from your estate
Given these benefits and the low cost of getting advice regarding a will, by making a will you really have nothing to lose.
Why consult a solicitor
It has become increasingly common for people to write their own will. However, for the laymen who lacks a thorough understanding of the law, this is an unwise option. There is a very good chance that you will miss one of the key requirements for validity, making your will useless and worthless. In order for a will to be legally valid, it must be in writing and witnessed by two persons who are mentally capable of acting as a witness and are not. Furthermore, the person creating the will must do so free of pressure and duress.
Aside of merely making sure your will is valid, discussing your will with a solicitor will allow to explore the range of trusts you might be able to exploit as well as ways of making tax savings. We can also help make sure you will is safely and securely stored and available in the event that it is needed.
Advice for executors and beneficiaries
If you have been appointed as the executor of a will, we can help you apply for grants of probate, which banks and other financial institutions may require before funds are released. We can also generally advise you on your duties and obligations as an executor.
If you due to inherit under a will and are having a dispute with other beneficiaries or just need general advice regarding your rights, we will be more than happy to help.