If you do not make a Will the Government effectively makes a Will for you. Although many people assume this will reflect their intentions this is, sadly, not the case.
For example:
(i) If a husband or wife dies without a Will the estate will not automatically pass to the survivor. If they have children, part of the estate may pass directly to the children, which could result in severe hardship for the surviving spouse.
(ii) If one of a couple who are unmarried dies the surviving partner will inherit nothing as the estate will go to the relatives.
Making a legally valid Will is the only effective way to ensure you protect those that you care about.
Reviewing your Will
Wills should be reviewed regularly and may need to be changed to reflect any of the following:
(i) Entering into a marriage or civil partnership which will invalidate your existing Will
(ii) Changes in your personal circumstances
(iii) Changes in your financial circumstances
(iv) Acquisition and/or disposal of a property
(v) Changes in tax laws may result in your existing Will no longer being tax effective
You should get legal advice on creating a Will whenever possible.
