Making a Will, particularly for the first time, can be a daunting and sometimes confusing
process. To help make the process a little more understandable, readers should note the
following.
1. A Will is an important document for all of us to have. It is a stark reality for the
majority of us that our Estates are worth more once we die. Even if we do not own a
property or significant savings, having a Will in place allows you to nominate
Guardians of any infant children.
2. Where there are children under 18 years of age, there are three categories of nominees
that you should be aware of: –
a. Executor – this is the person or persons you nominate to be in charge of
executing your Will. They will be charged with, amongst other things,
maintaining and gathering in your assets and liabilities, applying for a Grant of
Probate, and distributing your Estate.
b. Guardian – the person or persons you nominate to take charge of your minor
children.
c. Trustees – the people who will maintain and upkeep your assets for the benefit
of any nominated Trust beneficiaries.
3. Executors (and Guardians and Trustees where necessary) should be carefully chosen.
Details such as names and contact details for those you have nominated should be
brought with you to your appointment. This is to ensure that, when we die, our
Executors are easily identifiable and traceable.
4. Know the extent of your assets and liabilities. Property addresses, location of bank
accounts/ shares/ insurance policies etc. can be of great assistance to Executors,
particularly when they are not a direct relative and may not be aware of the nature and
extent of one’s financial position.
5. If you wish to make any specific bequests, for example leaving a wedding ring to an
eldest daughter or a prized collection to a like-minded sibling, ensure you have this
recorded in your Will. It can assist in avoiding disagreements or arguments between
relatives at a later date.
6. If you have any questions or concerns, have a list ready to go through with your
Solicitor before the Will is drafted. These questions can assist the Solicitor in
understanding your position and your particular set of circumstances. Thus, your
Solicitor is better placed to advise you accordingly.
If you wish to arrange an appointment to discuss and put a Will in place, call us today on
01 2960666 and we will be happy to start the process.
