MyNotaryNEWS
This page, together with
***MyNotaryNEWS the seasonal newlsetter from your local MyNotary Notary ***
includes features that we think may be of interest to persons and companies using the services of a notary public.
Money Matters
|
Features
 | Jonathan Tait & Company Solicitors and Notaries will guide you through the legal procedures that are often necessary following the death of a loved one. We advise you on any tax aspects and keep you fully appraised of the progress of the administration.
Contact us |
The Importance of making a Will
Many people seem to think that when they die all their property will pass to their husband or wife. That may happen (though not without legal procedures), but in certain circumstances it may not. For example, if you die without making a Will, i.e. "intestate" and if there are children, your husband or wife would inherit only up to a certain value of your share in the matrimonial home and only a certain amount on your other property. The rules governing what happens to the estate of a person dying intestate are complicated and, at the very least, will cause unnecessary anxiety and expense to the person dealing with your affairs when you die.
Given the minimal cost involved, it is much more sensible to make your wishes clear in a straight forward, formal document. However, it must be stressed that you should never attempt to make your own Will or complete a Will form from a shop by filling in the blanks. These are unlikely to be correct and can cause major complications.
It can be seen, then, that making a Will is in your own and your family's best interests. Here is an outline of some of the points you should consider before you give us your instructions:-
1. Executor: An Executor is the person who will carry out your wishes expressed in your Will. Your Executor can be your wife or husband, members of your family, friends or your Solicitors. It is common to appoint a member of your family and your Solicitor together as Executors.
2. Guardians of your Children: You may wish to appoint guardians of your children if you have young family.
3. Beneficiaries: e.g. wife, children etc.
4. Legacies: e.g. a particular painting or item of jewellery.
5. Pecuniary Legacies: e.g. a donation to a named charity.
6. Funeral Instruction: e.g. burial or cremation.
This is not an exhaustive list of the matters to be considered. Everyone is different and the next best step is to make an appointment with us to discuss your requirements in detail.
|