What Is a Will and Why Do You Need One?
A Will is a legally binding document that sets out your wishes for how your assets and estate should be distributed after you pass away. It allows you to have control over who inherits your money, property, and possessions, ensuring that your loved ones are provided for according to your wishes.
While making a Will is something many people put off, it is important when planning for the future, especially if you own property, have children, or wish to leave assets to specific individuals or charities. Without a Will, your estate may not be distributed as you intended.
Our team of Will solicitors in Bolton have many years of experience in assisting clients with drafting their Wills. We can ensure the relevant information is included and that your wishes are clearly documented in a legally valid Will. Our solicitors provide tailored advice to ensure your assets are distributed according to your instructions, minimising the risk of disputes and complications for your loved ones.
Whether you need a simple Will or have more complex requirements, such as appointing guardians for children, setting up trusts, or planning for inheritance tax, we can guide you through the process with clarity and expertise.
Please get in touch with our Will and Probate solicitors today to find out more.
Make a Will Bolton: What Should Be Included
A well-drafted Will should clearly outline your wishes and ensure your estate is handled as you intended. Key elements to include in a Will include:
- Personal Details & Declaration – Your full name, address, and a statement confirming this is your last Will, revoking any previous versions.
- Appointment of Executors – Trusted individuals responsible for managing your estate and ensuring your wishes are carried out.
- Beneficiaries & Asset Distribution – Details of who will inherit your money, property, and possessions, including specific gifts or charitable donations.
- Guardianship of Children – If you have children under 18, you should appoint a legal guardian to care for them.
- Trusts (If Applicable) – Provisions for managing assets for minors or vulnerable beneficiaries.
- Funeral Wishes – While not legally binding, you can express your preferences for burial, cremation, or specific arrangements.
- Signatures & Witnesses – Your Will must be signed in the presence of two independent witnesses for legal validity.
What Happens If You Die Without a Will?
If you die without a Will, your estate will be distributed under the rules of intestacy. These strict legal rules determine who inherits your assets, which may not reflect your personal wishes. For example, unmarried partners, stepchildren, and close friends do not automatically inherit anything, regardless of your relationship with them. Instead, your estate will go to your close relatives according to a fixed hierarchy, which could mean your assets end up with people you did not intend to benefit.
Additionally, if you have young children, not having a Will means you have no legal say in who should care for them if you pass away. The courts will decide on guardianship, which may not be with who you want to raise your children.
Get Professional Help with Your Will: How AFG Law Can Assist You
If you are looking to find a solicitor who specialises in making a Will in Bolton and who can offer expert legal advice, then our team at AFG Law are ready and on-hand to assist you.
For more information on making a Will in Bolton, or if you have any queries surrounding the Will and probate process, please do not hesitate to get in touch with us today. We can be contacted via email at PrivateClientDept@afglaw.co.uk or via phone call at 01204 377600.
For more information on our Will services, please visit our making a Will home page here.