CONNELL & CONNELL WS

SOLICITORS AND ESTATE AGENTS

WILLS

Why should I make a Will?

There are many reasons why you should make a Will but here are some of the most important ones:-

  • You control who benefits from your estate,
  • You can use your Will to save tax,
  • You can use your Will to protect assets for future generations,
  • It should give you peace of mind that your affairs are in order, and
  • It can make a difficult time slightly easier for your family.

If you do not make a Will, your estate will be distributed according to intestacy laws and this may mean that relatives, other than those that you wish to benefit, may also receive a share of your estate. It also adds unnecessary cost and worry to your family during an already difficult time.

Your Will should set out who you wish to be your executors. These are the people who will be responsible for making sure your estate is dealt with in accordance with your wishes. You should also provide for any cash or specific legacies, such as jewellery or other personal effects, to be left to particular people.

Some important aspects to consider

  • You can include a Trust in your Will that will provide your spouse an income during their lifetime with the capital passing to your children which may be an effective way of protecting assets for future generations, especially if you have children from a previous marriage.
  • In the event of a divorce, it is important that you write a fresh Will as divorce does not automatically invalidate your Will. This is also the case for individuals who have been in a civil partnership which has now been dissolved.
  • If you own foreign property, especially heritage, it is important to consider having a Will drawn up according to the laws of the country where your assets are situated. Ensuring that your foreign Will and your Scottish Will dovetail each other and do not inadvertently invalidate each other is important.

Whether your affairs are straightforward or complex, we can advise you on your Will. We recommend that you review your Will every 3 - 5 years and certainly when there is a change in your circumstances.

For further information on these or any other personal law issues, please contact:

Lesley Elrick -

Anne McKenzie -

This guide is for general information and interest only and should not be relied upon as providing specific legal advice. If you require any further information about the issues raised in this article please contact Connell &Connell.