Regardless of the value of your estate, it’s vital that every person in the UK has a valid will. In the event that you pass away without a will, your assets will be allocated according to the laws of intestacy, which means there’s a risk that your money, property and possessions may not be allocated as you would have wished.

 

Given the importance of the document, it should come as little surprise to learn that it is generally recommended to enlist the services of a solicitor to make your will. Here at Catherine Higgins Law, we’re proud to provide expert will writing services that provide you and your loved ones with the ultimate peace of mind. Here are three reasons why you should always use a solicitor to make your will:

 

1. Ensure the Will is Legally Valid

One of the most important advantages of having your will made by a solicitor is that it eliminates the risk of mistakes that many people make when attempting to make a will independently. For example, neglecting to have your will signed or forgetting to include certain – and potentially very valuable – assets can lead to ambiguities. In the worst case scenario, this can invalidate your will, which may require extensive legal costs to clarify after your passing, or could result in your assets being inherited by the wrong person. A professional solicitor, on the other hand, knows the ins and outs of all the relevant laws and can draw on their expertise to ensure your will is rock solid from a legal perspective.

 

2. Expert Insight

There’s no denying that many of the laws surrounding property and finance can be complicated. Writing even a straightforward will is challenging enough, but if your situation is more complex you should seriously consider using a solicitor to write your will. For example, if you have multiple family members who may be eligible to make a claim on the will, or if you are invested in property with a person who is not your significant other, there’s a good chance you’ll need a more complex will. A solicitor can help you understand your options, provide you expert and unbiased support throughout the will making process, and ensure that your estate is distributed according to your wishes.

 

3. Navigate Inheritance tax

As you may be aware, some estates are subject to inheritance tax, which can significantly reduce the amount of money that your loved ones will receive. The current inheritance tax threshold is £325,000 for an individual and £650,000 for a married couple – anything over this amount is subject to tax. In some cases, a solicitor can help you navigate the relevant laws and potentially reduce the amount of tax payable on the inheritance.

 

If you’re looking for a professional and compassionate solicitor to help you write your will, you’ve come to the right place. Give us a call today on 0151 428 2472 to learn more.