The first step in planning your estate and choosing who inherits
Making a Will is one of the most important steps you can take to ensure your wishes are known and your estate passes to the people or causes you choose.
It allows you to appoint trusted executors to manage your estate, name guardians for your children and leave gifts or legacies to loved ones or charities close to your heart.
The law decides, not you
The laws of intestacy determine who inherits your estate. This may not reflect your wishes, particularly if you have an unmarried partner, children from previous relationships or other family circumstances.
The Importance of Having a Will
Throughout life, we work hard to build up our homes, savings, investments and personal possessions. Making a Will helps you decide what happens to your estate after you’re gone, rather than leaving those decisions to the law. A Will can provide reassurance that your wishes are clearly recorded, helping to reduce uncertainty and potential disagreements for those you leave behind.
Why Making A Will Matters
A Will allows you to clearly set out who you wish to inherit your estate, how you would like it distributed, and anyone you may wish to exclude, such as an estranged child or grandchild. While a Will allows you to express these wishes, certain family members may still have grounds to contest it under the law.
Choose Who You Trust
Appoint executors to administer your estate and guardians for your children where appropriate.
Plan For Your Loved Ones
Consider your family’s individual circumstances and make arrangements that reflect your wishes.
Is A Simple Will Enough?
A simple Will is an important starting point, but it doesn’t necessarily protect your home or your loved ones’ inheritance against future changes in yours or their circumstances. Depending on your individual circumstances, Trust Wills offer additional protection, giving you greater control over how your estate is passed on.
At Coal & Kin, we explain your options in plain English, helping you make informed decisions about what’s right for you and your family.
Book Your Free ConsultationDo I need a Will?
A Will is the only way to make sure your wishes are carried out. Without one, the rules of intestacy decide who inherits, and that may not be what you would want. Unmarried partners, stepchildren and friends can be left out entirely, and the lack of clear instructions can lead to disputes and delays.
Are Mirror Wills enough for homeowners?
Mirror Wills usually leave everything to the surviving partner. That can leave the whole estate exposed to third-party claims, the risks of remarriage, or a later change of Will. Many homeowners benefit from Wills that include a protective trust instead.
When should I update my Will?
Review your Will every 3–5 years, or after any major life change, such as marriage, divorce, a new relationship, buying or selling property, or the birth of a child or grandchild.
An out-of-date Will is more likely to be challenged, could leave children without appointed guardians, and could even allow a child’s ex-partner to benefit after a divorce. Keeping your Will up to date means it always reflects your current wishes.
Can I write my own Will?
You can, but mistakes in wording, signing or witnessing can make a Will invalid or open to challenge. Having your Will professionally prepared means it is legally sound and reflects your true wishes.
Do I need a solicitor to make a Will?
No. A Will does not have to be prepared by a solicitor. Professional guidance helps you avoid errors and make sure your Will covers everything important, from guardians for your children to inheritance tax planning. At Coal & Kin, we make the process clear, simple and tailored to you.
When is the right time to make a Will?
The best time is now. Whether you’ve just bought a home, started a family or are planning for retirement, having a Will in place gives you peace of mind that your loved ones are provided for, whatever happens.