Estate planning
Wills
This is normally where we start, having a comprehensive up to date will is a critical part of estate planning. Did you know that it is estimated that more than two thirds of the 'over 40's' population do not have a valid up to date will? If you die without a valid will you are deemed to have died 'intestate', this means that the government rules of intestacy will be applied.
Invariably, this could mean that your estate will not be distributed as you may have wished!
In fact, if you and your partner are not married, then your partner will be entitled to nothing!
By making a will YOU can decide exactly who gets what – not the government. If you have children under the age of 18 you can also use your will to nominate who you wish to have guardianship of those children. Leaving things to chance can cause real problems, while making a will is simple and painless and can save your loved ones a lot of stress in the long run.
New Intestacy rules came into effect at the beginning of October 2014, which change the way a person's estate is divided if they die without leaving a valid will. These changes highlight why it’s never been more important to make a Will to ensure that you have the final say in who inherits your estate.
If you've made a will but never updated it, you could even benefit people you no longer wish to favour. We recommend reviewing any existing wills at least every three to five years.
Contact us today to arrange a meeting to find out how we can help you write your will. The first meeting is at our cost, and with no obligation, so you really have nothing to lose.
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Book your free first meeting
No obligation. We can meet you at our St Albans office or at your home.
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Our sister company
Financial advice from Omni Financial
Your will is one part of your plan. Omni Financial can look at inheritance tax, pensions and investments alongside it.
Q&A
Questions & answers
What happens if I die without a will?
Your estate is shared out under the rules of intestacy rather than your own wishes. An unmarried partner has no automatic right to inherit, however long you have lived together.
Can I name guardians for my children in my will?
Yes. If you have children under 18, your will is where you choose who would look after them if both parents died.
How often should I review my will?
We recommend a review every three to five years, and after any big change such as marriage, divorce, a new child or grandchild, or moving home.
Does getting married cancel my will?
In England and Wales, marriage or civil partnership normally revokes an existing will unless it was written in contemplation of that marriage, so it is important to make a new one.
Your first meeting is free
Talk to our estate planning team in St Albans. Call 01727 220053 or send us a message.