Married, Civil Partners, Divorced, Single......? Make A Will.

29^th March 2015 marks the first anniversary of same sex marriage. This is a step on from the right to enter into a civil partnership, which came into effect ten years ago in December 2005. Same sex couples, whether married or civil partners, have exactly the same legal rights that married heterosexual couples have always enjoyed, in life and in death. Whatever your sexual orientation or marital status, a properly drafted will is something that everyone should invest in. A will may well be one of the most important documents that you ever sign and will dictates what happens to your assets on your death and who deals with that task. I am sure everyone will agree that life certainly seems more complicated nowadays than ever before. If you are married for the second time, living with a partner (with no formal arrangements in place) or you are unmarried, but have children (especially minor children), then these are all very good reasons why you ought to give some serious thought to making a will. Under your will you can appoint executors, who will handle the administration of your estate. You can make specific gifts, deal with business interests, make arrangements for your loved ones to remain in a property that ultimately will then pass to someone else and also name legal guardians for your minor children. You may also want to look at ways to protect your property as you move into older age. A meeting with a solicitor, to discuss your will can also raise issues that you did not appreciate existed! - Surely it is better to be forewarned and forearmed when it comes to the future of your family and loved ones. A will is nothing to be fearful of, it is simply another job on your to do list and ought to be done. So step away from your tablets and iPhone and make an appointment to speak to one of our experienced probate team about your will. For further information contact Louise Rudkin at [email protected] or 0114 266 6660