Wills

Why make a Will?

Your Will lets your loved ones know how you would like your possessions and assets (your estate) distributed after you die. It appoints a trusted person (executor) to manage and finalise your affairs and may also include your preferences regarding your funeral and burial/cremation arrangements or the care of children. However, despite the importance of having a valid Will, statistics indicate that many people do not have one.

The law governing Wills and succession in the United Kingdom is complex but that does not mean that it is expensive or difficult to have a Will made to give you peace of mind and clarify your wishes for family, friends and others. To make a legally valid Will, you must:

  • make it voluntarily
  • be at least 18 years
  • have capacity (the ability to understand what you are signing)
  • make the Will in writing
  • sign the document in the presence of two adult witnesses who should also each sign the document, in your presence

​What happens if you die without a Will?

When someone dies without leaving a valid Will, known as dying intestate, it can cause difficulties for the family left behind who are usually already stressed at the bereavement.

If you do not leave a Will, your estate will be distributed following the rules of intestacy. This is a complex process and can have serious implications, particularly if you are in a long-term relationship but neither married nor in a civil partnership. The distribution rules may result in someone you had never intended inheriting your estate and excluding those closest to you.

Not having a Will also causes uncertainty among the family you leave behind and may lead to disagreements between siblings and relatives. ​In some cases, failing to leave a Will could result in your estate passing to the Crown.

Can I make a Will without a solicitor?

Capa Law appreciates just how busy life can get, so when it comes to making a Will, we offer two choices. Our online service is quick and easy providing a legally binding straight forward Will at your own convenience. If the online service is not your preference, then we offer a more personalised, bespoke service to ensure that your Will requirements are met.

Will-making is rarely a one-size-fits-all exercise. You and your family’s circumstances are unique, and therefore it makes sense to tailor your Will accordingly.

Solicitors typically look at the overall picture and will consider a range of matters including how your assets are held, as this can determine how and to whom those assets may be left. For example, when assets are held jointly with another person, the surviving party will automatically inherit the deceased person’s share when they die. A contrary direction in a Will to leave that share to somebody other than the joint tenant will not override this legal principle.

A solicitor will typically consider and identify issues unique to you that may need to be addressed and approached with careful planning. Having a valid Will means you decide:

  • who manages your estate
  • who cares for your minor children
  • who benefits (and who doesn’t) from your hard-earned wealth

Our Will services

At CAPA LAW, we offer:

  • An Online Will – A straightforward, convenient option for those with simple needs.
  • A Bespoke Will – Personalised advice to ensure your Will reflects your wishes accurately.

However, we only prepare Simple Wills or Mirror Wills, as we believe these cover the needs of most individuals and couples effectively.

CAPA LAW Solicitors, Liverpool offer a simple Will or Mirror Will writing service. If you have been putting off making a Will or need help or advice, please contact us on 0151 662 0345 or email: enquiry@capalaw.co.uk.