Why is it important to make a will?

Making a will is the most cost-effective and simple way of ensuring that what you own goes to the people you choose. A will makes things straightforward for the family, who have enough to cope with if someone dies unexpectedly. it also gives you peace of mind to know you have handled an important task responsibly.

So don't put off - in some cases it can be disastrous for everyone concerned if you have not made your final wishes clear. Don't rely on DIY Will forms - they can't answer your questions and they can't give professional advice on what to do with your property.

At South Forrest your solicitor will be able to offer the expert advice you need to make the right will and will quote a price based on what type of will you need to make.

What should my will say?

Before you come to see us, it's a good idea to draw up a list of the full names and addressed of people who will benefit from your will and what they are going to get.

When you are drafting your will, the most important things is to write down who is to get what. As long as your instructions are clear, we can sort out the exact wording.

How should I share out what I own?

Generally, how you divide your possessions is entirely up to you, although usually your spouse or any child can claim a share, even if this is not what you want. In these cases the exact share is fixed by law and we can explain how this works if the situation applies to you.

Remember, you don't have to specify exact amounts - after all, it may be a long time before your will is needed and you don't know how your situation will change in future. Think in portions - whole, half, third, quarter - then it will be easier to share out what you have.

You can also leave particular things to people, such as a house or a piece of jewellery, or anything else that will have special personal value to someone. It's best if these things are itemised in your will, but you can always add bequests of personal possessions later on.

Be in control

What else should I consider?

You need to nominate executors - people you know and trust who will carry out the instructions laid down in your will following your death. Your executors don't have to be beneficiaries of your will. If you have young children, you may want to state who their guardians will be if they are left without a parent.

What's the next step?

When your solicitor has all the necessary information, he or she will draw up a will for you to sign. You will be sent a draft first so you can check it. You should ask about anything that isn't clear and you should be happy that it reflects your wishes. Our job is to express your instructions in the correct legal terms, so your property is protected and shared out in the stated proportions to the named beneficiaries. We will also advise you on how you can reduce inheritance tax on your property.

Can a will be changed after it's signed?

Yes. You can usually amend your will whenever you like, although it's better if your original will is worded in such a way that it doesn't have to be changed that often. We can advise you on the best way to do this.

South Forrest solicitors are experienced in drawing up wills, so you can rest assured that your final wishes will be clearly communicated. Making a will is an important duty to your family and South Forrest can answer any questions or concerns you have as you work through the process.

What should my first step be?

That's simple. Call us on +44 (0)1463 237171 and ask to speak to one of our solicitors. You can arrange an appointment to discuss your needs and we will advise you on what to do next and how much it is likely to cost. Alternatively click here to generate our email form.