Even if you don't think you have much money or own many assets, it's important for you to make a Will. 

Sadly, making a Will is often low down on our priorities of things to do.  Many people see making a Will as a time consuming and expensive process, but it isn't the case.

Did you know that 60% of people in the UK aged over 60 don't have a Will?  It's important to have a Will because:

• if you die without a Will, the law will dictate how your property and money will be distributed.  The people who you wished your possessions to go to may not be the ones who receive them
• there are tax saving opportunities for your loved ones should your estate incur Inheritance Tax
• arrangements can be made for children should one or both parents die
• unmarried partners and partners who have registered a civil partnership can inherit from each other and not create serious financial problems should a partner die

If you are in any doubt as to whether or not you should make a Will, let our team of Will experts guide you through the Will making process.

We know you lead busy lives and we can deal with the entire process by telephone, email or post.  There's no need for us to meet you face to face.  Once you've made the decision to make a Will, we can commit to sending you a draft within 48 hours of receiving your full instructions.

Do I need a solicitor to make my Will? 

As there's is no legal requirement for a Will to be drawn up or witnessed by a solicitor, some people turn to 'do-it-yourself Will' kits bought in shops or use online Will writers.  

Whilst these options may seem relatively cheap and convenient, there are dangers in using them which may cause problems after your death.  Sorting out disputes could result in significant legal costs, potentially reducing the amount of money in your estate.

We recommend all clients use a solicitor for making a Will, to ensure your wishes are arranged exactly as you'd like them, and that there are no unexpected surprises for your loved ones later on. 

Circumstances when a solicitor should be used to make a Will

There are some complex situations when it is strongly advisable to use a solicitor for making a Will

• you wish to make a provision for a dependant who is unable to care for themselves
• you're British, but your permanent home is outside of the United Kingdom
• you're not a British citizen
• you own assets or properties overseas
• you own or are involved in a business
• you share property with someone who is not your husband, wife or civil partner

I wish to challenge a Will

There may be some circumstances where you are contesting a Will.  Perhaps you believe the Will is invalid or that it doesn't adequately provide for you.  If you're involved in a dispute regarding a Will, you must seek legal advice as early as possible and we can help.

Why use Access Legal from Shoosmiths for making my Will?

• Use the experts!  You need specialist advice to ensure your Will is set up properly and that matters are arranged in such a way that your loved ones will be protected.
• Making a Will doesn't have to be time consuming and expensive; our specialist team will work with you to ease you through the process and advise you every step of the way.
• Cost effective - we offer fixed fees for our Wills.  Our prices are competitive and we do everything we can to keep the cost of our Wills affordable and attractive. 
• Other services - we offer free storage of Wills and other documents, for example deeds.
• We're able to help and advise you about any type of Will.  You may just need a straightforward Will leaving your estate to your spouse or partner, or you may have more complex family arrangements requiring more complex Wills.  Whatever the requirement, we can help.

What do I do next?

Call us on 03700 86 86 86 and speak to a member of the Wills team who can help guide you through the process of making a Will.

• Phone
• Online
• Post