07485 619415 karen@brendabeveridge.co.uk

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. 

Posted on Google Google
Colin Allen profile picture
Colin Allen
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
My wife and I have just used this firm to set up our wills, trust funds and powers of attorney. They were so knowledgeable and helpful. Karen came out to our house and made sure we understood everything and patiently answered all our questions. In fact a friend who'd called in to witness our signatures realised that the advisor she had used had missed a couple of points in the light of Karen's explanations! We felt in really safe hands in this important area and we can't recommend them highly enough. Thoroughly professional and genuine 5 star service!
Posted on Google Google
Margaret Webzell profile picture
Margaret Webzell
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
We were looking for help with Wills, Trusts and LPA and came upon Brenda Beveridge and Karen Robinson purely by chance. Their professional help was exactly what we needed and Karen was especially helpful and took extra time to explain everything. We would highly recommend them to anyone who needs their expertise in this area.
Posted on Google Google
Phil Gott profile picture
Phil Gott
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Karen came to our house explained everything clearly and professionally showed our options and we did it all there and then wills and trust at a very reasonable price
Posted on Google Google
Gaz Gray profile picture
Gaz Gray
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Professional, patient, helpful. Understanding. Great service and we'll worth it.
Posted on Google Google
Robert Armstrong profile picture
Robert Armstrong
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Karen is unassuming and down to earth . We were at ease within five minutes of sitting down with her . She focused on our needs and guided us through the process at our pace. I first spoke to Karen on the 10th of August and she visited us a few days later. By the 27th of August she came back and everything was completed. Karen is a complete professional and a really nice person.
Posted on Google Google
John Cross profile picture
John Cross
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Fantastic company they talk you though everything no pressure to sign and look after you all the way
Posted on Google Google
Janice Grant profile picture
Janice Grant
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Fantastic service from a lovely lady - thank you Karen. All our questions answered fully and really good communication during the process of drawing up our wills. Can highly recommend!
Posted on Google Google
Andrew Waters profile picture
Andrew Waters
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Thank you Karen, what I though would be complex situation, you made it a simple and easy process, great service, Thank you
Posted on Google Google
Jennifer Pears profile picture
Jennifer Pears
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
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 🍐
Posted on Google Google
Christine Allen profile picture
Christine Allen
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
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.
Verified by Trustindex
Trustindex verified badge is the Universal Symbol of Trust. Only the greatest companies can get the verified badge who has a review score above 4.5, based on customer reviews over the past 12 months. Read more

How We Can Help

Brenda Beveridge
Privacy Overview

This website uses cookies so that we can provide you with the best user experience possible. Cookie information is stored in your browser and performs functions such as recognising you when you return to our website and helping our team to understand which sections of the website you find most interesting and useful.