If you have anything of value to leave when you die, or you have dependents or children that are under the age of majority, then you should have a Will that appoints guardians and allocates your wealth appropriately.

If you remarry, you will probably need to redraft your Will to take care of blood relatives and children from former marriages. If you own a business, you will need a Will to make arrangements for the distribution of shares and perhaps even appoint directors in your stead, subject to the control of the business that your shareholding allows.

If you own property you may need a Will to make provision for its sale and/or management in the short and long term. However, if your property is owned with others as tenants in common, then your share of the property will pass directly to them on your death, outside the Will. Do you want that to happen?

If you are wealthy, making provision for efficient tax planning is important and a Will allows you to set out such requirements clearly for your executor or trustees. Furthermore, if you are incapacitated due to illness, you may benefit from a prearranged ‘life will’ which makes provision in the event of your incapacitation, including the grant of a power of attorney.

If you have any wealth or responsibilities, or a desire to dictate anything in regard to your funeral, then you need a Will!

For more information see our Wills and Estate Planning page or speak to an adviser on 01628 507477.