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Wills

Why Do I need a Will?

  • Everyone should have a Will, but 2 out of 3 people have not yet made one, and those that have may not have the correct Will in place
  • A large proportion of any inheritance could be lost in future divorce settlements, to creditors or bankruptcy and unnecessary taxation
  • An estimated 70,000 people per year have to sell their homes to pay for care.
  • If you own a business or a share of a business then your spouse / partner and children may not inherit your share of the business.

Protecting Your Wealth

The vast majority of people put off making a Will for a variety of reasons, either believing that the people they would wish to inherit will automatically do so, or because they don’t think it is relevant to them at this particular time.

The reality is that you can put off making a Will until it is too late, and this poses all sorts of problems for the people left behind. It could mean that some, or all of your inheritance, either goes to the wrong person or to the state.

Everyone needs to make a Will. In particular, anyone with dependent relatives must do so. Anyone who owns a property or has any type of asset which you would wish relatives, friends or charities to benefit from should also make a Will.

Making a Will enables you to plan exactly what will happen to your property (estate) following your passing. This ensures that those you would like to benefit actually do so, in accordance with your wishes, and at the same time avoids disputes between beneficiaries.

Frequently Asked Questions

What happens if I die without a will? 

If you die without a valid will (known as being intestate), your estate is distributed according to strict government rules of intestacy, which may not be in accordance with your wishes.

I don't have many assets—do I need a Will? 

Yes. Wills are not just for the wealthy.  Having a Will means you can ensure that the people you wish to leave anything to, actually receives their intended inheritance

Will my unmarried partner inherit if I don’t have a Will? we’ve lived together for a long time

In many jurisdictions (like England and Wales), cohabiting partners do not automatically inherit under intestacy rules, making a will crucial for their protection. 

Can I write my own will?

Although you can use “DIY” kits or online services, these are high-risk because they often fail to meet legal requirements, leading to invalid documents, unintended beneficiaries, or expensive, time-consuming legal battles for loved ones.  It’s really not worth the risk.

Who can witness my will? 

In England a will must be signed in the physical presence of two independent witnesses (aged 18+) who are not beneficiaries, or married to beneficiaries; if they are then any gift to the beneficiary could become invalid.

How do I ensure my Will is valid?

You must be 18 or over, make your Will voluntarily, be of sound mind, make it in writing, sign it in the presence of 2 witnesses who are both over 18, and have your Will signed by your 2 witnesses.

What are executors and what do they do? 

Executors are the people you nominate, who are legally responsible for carrying out the instructions in your Will.  They will manage your estate, pay debts, and distribute assets according to your wishes.  Often spouses, children or other family members are appointed, but make sure they are the right people for the job.

Can a beneficiary be an executor? 

Yes, beneficiaries can be Executors.

What if I want to exclude someone? 

You can exclude someone from your Will in England and Wales due to testamentary freedom. However, spouses, civil partners, children, and dependents can challenge the will under the Inheritance Act 1975 if they believe reasonable provision was not made.  It’s important to create a separate document explaining why you excluded the person. This document helps courts understand your decision if the Will is contested.

Who should I choose as a guardian for my children? 

You should pick trusted friends or family members to take parental responsibility for children under 18.  It’s really important to also have reserve guardians, especially if you choose people older than yourselves (i.e. your children’s grandparents) & you should discuss the role with people you intent to appoint to make sure they’re happy being potential guardians

Does marriage cancel a will? 

Yes, in many jurisdictions (like England and Wales), marriage or entering a civil partnership revokes a previous will & a new one is needed.

How often should I review my will? 

You should review your will every 5 years or after major life events such as buying a home, having children, marriage, or divorce. 

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Jennifer Pears profile picture
Jennifer Pears
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Our Will and Trust needed updating and Brenda Beveridge and daughter Karen were highly recommended to us. • Personal and professional service • Caring • Knowledgeable • Offer home visits • Nothing was a trouble and answered all our concerns Many thanks Jen & Derek Pears 🍐
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Christine Allen profile picture
Christine Allen
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A very positive and surprisingly pleasant experience overall. Karen made several home visits during which she answered my many questions and provided clear information about my options re setting up Power of Attorney and making a Will. Very satisfied with the service provided and would have no hesitation in contacting her again should the need arise.
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Stuart Kenwell
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excellent personal service
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Lucile Blight profile picture
Lucile Blight
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Karen was excellent in helping us sort out our trusts and wills. Excellent service . Thanks again
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Alan Bunce profile picture
Alan Bunce
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Brenda Beveridge Wills and Trust, Karen has been very nice, very professional and thorough throughout our meetings. She is very understanding, and explained step by step what to do and when. Karen even came to my home for our meetings, she made me feel very at ease and confident to go on with the PofA. I would highly recommend Brenda Beveridge Wills and Trust. I'm surely going to use them if ever needed. Thank you to Karen.
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Janet Roddham
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Absolutely brilliant and explanatory from.the beginning lovely freindly relaxed atmosphere professionally conducted would highly recommend
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Christine Ditchburn
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A first class service which I highly recommend. Look no further for your wills, trusts and power of attorney needs.
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BARRY NEWTON
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Thank you for explaining everything and help! Nothing is too much trouble, 100%
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Geoff Smlth
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Karen explained every thing with care and professionalism I was apprehensive at first but every question I had was answered and explained, your trusting your life’s savings so needs to be right I made the right decision using Brenda and Karen Beveridge for my will and trust .
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Patricia Dixon profile picture
Patricia Dixon
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A first class service! I would highly recommend Brenda Beveridge Wills and Trusts Ltd. Karen was professional, efficient and thorough with clear communication at each stage. Documentation was provided quickly with attention to detail making the process very smooth.
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