Many people are under the misapprehension that there is no need for them to make a Will as their spouse will inherit everything. However, under the Intestacy Rules, a spouse or civil partner will only inherit the whole estate if the deceased has no children.
More than half of British adults have not made a Will. Of those who have, many have not updated their wills for some time, which is reflected in the soaring number of inheritance disputes heard in the High Court.
When you make a Will there are a number of life events that can impact its validity. One of these is marriage. Under UK law, marriage automatically cancels out a Will made before the date of the marriage, rendering it invalid.
At the outset, DIY Wills can be seen as an inexpensive option. However, the legal costs involved to remedy their potential errors, may well exceed the cost of a professionally prepared Will.
Moving in with your partner or buying a house together, when you are not yet married needs a little extra thought before proceeding. From a legal point of view, there are a few things to consider.
At the outset, DIY Wills can be seen as an inexpensive option. However, the legal costs involved to remedy their potential errors, may well exceed the cost of a professionally prepared Will.
Making a Will is often something that gets forgotten about but everyone should have one. It is even more important if you have children, you own property or have savings, investments, insurance policies or you own a business.
Moving in with your partner or buying a house together when you are not yet married needs a little extra thought before proceeding. From a legal point of view, there are a few things to consider!
There is a general perception that the wishes expressed in your “Last Will and Testament” will be respected by those who survive you, and by the Courts. Unfortunately, that view may no longer be as well founded as it once was.
