My downloadable guide provides practical advice on Wills, estate planning, and related legal matters under England & Wales law. It emphasizes the importance of having a Will to avoid financial complications and family disputes after death.
Key Points:
- Why a Will Matters: Without a Will, intestacy rules apply, which may not align with your wishes and can create tax and inheritance issues. A Will ensures spouse relief, protects assets from remarriage, and allows control over when children inherit.
- DIY vs Professional: While you can write your own Will, pitfalls are common. The recommended approach is to seek professional advice, which I can provide.
- Regular Review: Wills should be reviewed at least every five years or after major life events like marriage or divorce.
- Executors & Guardians: Executors manage your estate; they can be family members, beneficiaries, or professionals if disputes are likely. Guardians should be appointed for minor children.
- Distribution of Assets: Specific gifts and legacies can be included, but avoid over-specifying. Residue (remaining estate) should be allocated clearly, with contingency plans for unforeseen circumstances.
- Excluding Family Members: Permissible under English law, but financial dependents may claim under the Inheritance (Provision for Family & Dependants) Act 1975. Document exclusions explicitly.
- Simple Will vs Complex Needs: A simple Will suits straightforward estates but is inappropriate for complex family structures, business ownership, or potential Inheritance Tax issues.
On the next page is a series of animations illustrating the key messages from the Guide.
Bottom Line: A properly drafted and regularly reviewed Will is essential for protecting your family, minimising tax, and ensuring your wishes are honoured. Professional guidance is strongly recommended for complex situations, which I can provide.
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If you think I may be able to help, you’re welcome to contact me by phone, WhatsApp, email, or through the online enquiry form. The phone and WhatsApp links only work fully if you’re viewing the site on your mobile phone.
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Where the questionnaire asks for detailed figures, you may find it easier to provide copies of statements, valuations or other relevant documents instead. This is entirely acceptable, and many clients opt for this approach. I am happy to receive documents securely via Dropbox.
If you would like to use this option, please email me — or complete the enquiry form below — with your name and date of birth. Your date of birth (using the ddmmyyyy format) will be used only to password‑protect your personal Dropbox folder.
Your initial consultation is at my expense, your convenience, and without obligation. Consultations will generally be conducted online via Microsoft Teams or Zoom. After a preliminary conversation, if you live in or near Teesside, I can provide an at-home service if you prefer.