When a loved one dies, the first order of business is to locate the will. If a will cannot be found, family members must search for the will. Whether you need help preparing a will or probate solicitors in London to guide you through the probate process, the solicitors at SCL Wills and Probate can assist you.
In order to make sure your wishes are known and reduce stress for your family in an already difficult time, it is important to have a will in place and let your loved ones know where to find the will. You can find additional information about the will writing services offered by SCL Wills and Probate at www.sclwillsandprobate.co.uk .
The Process of Making a Will
Although it is possible to write a will on your own, there are many factors to consider and having the advice of solicitors specialising in wills can be helpful. A solicitor can advise you about the laws, suggest ways to minimise the inheritance tax paid on your estate, guide you through the process of making a will, and even store your will.
There are many factors that should be considered when making a will. Your will should address the people you want to inherit your property, money, and other possessions and name an executor to sort out your estate. If you have minor children, you should name a person to look after the children for you. You may also want to decide what will happen if the people you have chosen to benefit from your estate die before you.
Some estates are relatively simple and straightforward, but other situations can be complex. A solicitor can offer advice for these situations. You may want to get the advice of will and probate lawyers if you share property with someone who is not a spouse or civil partner, want to leave money for dependents who are unable to care for themselves, own a business in the UK, have property or a business overseas, or have family members who may make a claim on your will, such as children from a prior marriage.
When you take the time to make a will, you also want to make sure the will is legally valid. In order for a will to be valid, the person making the will must be over the age of 18, be of sound mind, and voluntarily make the will. The will must be in writing, be signed in the presence of two witnesses above the age of 18, and have two witness signatures. The witnesses must sign the will in your presence. The witnesses cannot be people who will benefit from your will.
Changes in life may require changes to a will in the future. For example, if you get married, get divorced, have children, or other changes in your life situation, you may want to change the people who will inherit your property and assets. This can be done by creating a codicil to your existing will. A solicitor specialising in wills can help you make the necessary changes.
