The law does not require you to make a will but if you die without having made one, your estate, which includes all your property, money and other personal possessions, will be distributed in accordance with the law and your wishes will not be taken into account. This can mean that long-term partners and friends who support you are often left out.

If you want to ensure that your assets pass to the people you want, then you need to make a will, even if you feel you do not have much to leave.

What are the benefits of making a will?

A will not only ensures your assets go to the people you choose, but it also enables you to decide who deals with your estate and carries out your wishes after your death, for example funeral wishes and arrangements, and who will look after your pets. This will help your loved ones to know that they are acting as you would have wished.

It is important to remember that you are the only one who can make or change your will. Attorneys cannot do this for you without making a special application to the Court of Protection. This process can be lengthy and costly and so it is important that you make a will and keep it up to date! My colleague Amanda is head of our specialist Court of Protection team and can advise you if an application to the court needs to be made.

By making a will through a solicitor you can rest assured that your will is valid and your assets will pass to those you want to receive them.

If you would like to discuss making a will I can be contacted on 01245 453835 or claire.read@birkettlong.co.uk