A will is a written set of instructions you can prepare during your life that sets out what you want to happen to your worldly goods once you die.
As well as setting out directions for disposal of property, a valid will appoints one or more executors. It is the executors' role to get the estate together after your death, and dispose of it in accordance with your instructions.
Wills are required to be in writing and signed by the person making it (the testator) , and there are a number of formalities around signing the will - wills generally require two witnesses who must be present when the testator signs.
Wills are carefully scrutinised by the courts, when the court is considering granting "probate", which is legal approval for the executor to deal with the estate. For this reason it is useful to obtain legal advice or get a lawyer to draft your will - to ensure your wishes are carried out and there is no dispute about what the will says.
What if I don't have a will?
A person who dies without a will is said to die "intestate". The person's property is then required to be distributed according to a statutory formula, which may not be what they want. It is much better to set out your instructions in a properly drawn will.
Contact Peter if you want to discuss making a will or reviewing your old will or if you need assistance is sorting out an estate.
As well as setting out directions for disposal of property, a valid will appoints one or more executors. It is the executors' role to get the estate together after your death, and dispose of it in accordance with your instructions.
Wills are required to be in writing and signed by the person making it (the testator) , and there are a number of formalities around signing the will - wills generally require two witnesses who must be present when the testator signs.
Wills are carefully scrutinised by the courts, when the court is considering granting "probate", which is legal approval for the executor to deal with the estate. For this reason it is useful to obtain legal advice or get a lawyer to draft your will - to ensure your wishes are carried out and there is no dispute about what the will says.
What if I don't have a will?
A person who dies without a will is said to die "intestate". The person's property is then required to be distributed according to a statutory formula, which may not be what they want. It is much better to set out your instructions in a properly drawn will.
Contact Peter if you want to discuss making a will or reviewing your old will or if you need assistance is sorting out an estate.