Why a will matters
Without a valid will, your estate is shared out under the intestacy rules. These follow a fixed order of relatives and take no account of what you would have wanted. An unmarried partner, a stepchild or a close friend can receive nothing at all.
A will lets you decide who inherits, who looks after your estate, and who would care for your children if they were still young.
What we help you decide
- Who should inherit, and in what shares
- Executors you trust to carry out your wishes
- Guardians for children under 18
- Gifts to family, friends and charities
- Whether trusts within your will could protect your beneficiaries
When to review it
We recommend reviewing your will every few years, and after any major life event such as marriage, divorce, a new child or grandchild, or buying property. Marriage cancels an existing will in England and Wales unless it was made with that marriage in mind.