Writing a Will is something the majority of people would agree as something that should be done but finding the time and/or inclination to do it is somewhat different. Writing a will makes us think of death itself which can be frightening.
However it should be a priority for each of us. 75% of the population dies in the UK without leaving a will which leads to extra costs and the Government deciding how to allocate your assets. You worked hard to have the things you own and you should choose how to distribute them.
Luckily with the arrival of internet and an increasing trend towards all things DIY we now have a plethora of choices available. A visit to a solicitor with accompanying frightening fees to pay is no longer the only option.
But it should be noted that however you choose to write your will it is a legal document and therefore should be checked by a solicitor if you prepare it yourself. One important point, a solicitors verification is not necessary to make a will legal, just advisory.
For the traditionalists it is clear that going to a solicitor to prepare your will is guaranteed to give you peace of mind legally speaking. It costs a lot but it is completely secure. This is still an option worth considering for those who have more complicated or detailed wills to prepare.
For those on a slimmer budget there are now many kinds of DIY wills available in good stationary stores or that can be printed from online. These are only recommended for those who require a fairly straightforward will (family businesses, divorces, children, overseas property and other complex situations require a more extensive method). A DIY will should be checked by a solicitor so one has to consider this extra expense.
If you are computer savvy you may consider will making software and if you have an intricate life requiring regular updates or wish to help other family members prepare their wills then this can be useful but it can be an expensive option if you only have to prepare one or two comparatively straightforward wills.
A quick search online will reveal many companies who can combine the facility of will writing software with the security of a solicitors verification without buying the software or relying completely on a solicitor thereby paying exorbitant fees. This is nowadays a very popular option.
Whichever method you choose, don’t just think about it, do it as soon as possible and leave your assets to those that you choose, not the government!
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