Wills

Making a Will is a task that people often put off—but it makes a huge difference to what happens to your money, property, and responsibilities after you die. Here’s why it matters:

• You can control who gets what. Scots law makes provision for what should happen to an individuals assets upon death should they not leave a Will behind. By instructing a Will you, you can ensure that property is divided up as per your wishes.

• Should you die without a Will, obtaining "Confirmation" (known as Probate in England) becomes a more complicated, time consuming and expensive process which falls to your loves ones to deal with. Having a Will in place prevents this without undue Court process.

• You can appoint an Executor. Without a Will, the Court appoints an Executor and this may not always be who you wished.

• In Scotland, unmarried partners can be disinherited (even if you live together). A Will can prevent this.

• Clear instructions can prevent family disagreements and legal challenges after you have passed.

• Steps can be taken to reduce the impact of care home fees, protect the family home and reduce any possible Inheritance Tax bill.