What is a Will

Everyone should have a will. If you die without making a will then your property and possessions will pass under the laws of intestacy, which may not be in accordance with your wishes. A will ensures that your specific intentions and special requirements are carried out after your death.

What is a will?

A will is a legally binding document to come into effect on your death, leaving specific instructions to be given for money, property and personal possessions. A will ensures that the persons whom it is intended to benefit actually do benefit upon your death and appoints executors who are responsible for carrying out your wishes.

What happens if I do not make a will?

If a person dies without making a will, his or her property and belongings pass to others in an order laid down by the rules of intestacy. For more information on the rules of intestacy, please click here

What can I include in my will?

Anything of value to you. Property, money, personal possessions and family heirlooms.

Who makes sure my wishes are carried out?

A will nominates executors to deal with the distribution of the estate. Executors have authority immediately upon death. If intestacy arises (that is if you die without a will), authority can only be granted by application of next of kin to the Court.

What will happen to my children upon my death?

A Will can contain the appointment of your choice of guardians for your children (if your children are still minors at the time of your death). This enables specific arrangements for the physical care of your children to be made.

Who writes my will?

Click below to fill in our Will Questionnaire and send it back to us. We will then draft your will, which will be sent to you, so you can check and amend it, if necessary. 

Where is my will kept?

We retain a copy of your will for you and ensure it is kept safe until it is needed.  Further details about the safe storage of your will can be found in our Will Questionnaire.

What if my circumstances change?

We provide a service whereby we review and update your will if your circumstances change (for example, if you have more children or a named beneficiary dies).

How much will it cost?

Please see our cost estimates page.

Why use a solicitor to draft your will? 

Home made wills can be extremely problematic because they are often poorly drafted and become subject to dispute. We will ensure that your true intentions are reflected correctly and more importantly ensure that your will is valid.

For more information please email wills@newhamptonlaw.com.

Download a copy of our Will Questionnaire