Writing a Will

It's important to write your Will in a particular way to ensure that:

1. You have included all the relevant issues, and

2. It is a legally binding document that would stand up in court if challenged.

The information below and the various pages within this Guide provide valuable insight into Writing a Will and how to ensure it meets the above criteria:

Make sure you list all of your assets (belongings) which could include items such as property, cash, financial investments, vehicle(s) and other valuable objects.

List those people you would like to benefit from your Will. People you may want to consider are:

• Your spouse, civil partner or partner

• A previous spouse, civil partner or partner

• Your child/ren, including adopted, step children or children you've been caring for as though they were part of the family

• Someone you've been financially responsible for, eg. an elderly relative or godchild

• Other relatives or friends you may want to give a gift to

• Charities or organisations. Make sure you write the exact charity name, address and registered charity number in your Will.

Something to remember is if you have dependents, the Provision for Family and Dependants Act 1975 requires you should, wherever possible, leave them enough to live on. If you have dependents but write your Will to leave everything to another beneficiary, your Will can be challenged in court and may be declared invalid.

If you have any children under the age of 18 you will need to select Guardians who will take full responsibility for your children should you die before they reach the age of 18. Guardians will take care of your child and also manage the money and/or assets left to them until they either reach 18, or the age you stipulate in your Will.

For further information on Guardians, and points to consider on who to choose please see our Guardians page.

Executors are the people you select to handle your estate in the event of your death and ensure your wishes are met. There is a fair amount of work involved in being an Executor, so it's worthwhile familiarising yourself with our Executors page to understand their various responsibilities before choosing who you would like to undertake this important role.

In order for your Will to be legally valid you will need to sign it in the presence of two witnesses over the age of 18. Our Signing and Witnessing page provides full information on how this procedure should be carried out correctly.