Wills

To avoid any issues and further stress for loved ones upon your death you should ensure you have a valid will in place. If you die without a will in place, this is called dying intestate. The intestacy rules may not follow your wishes which is why having a will in place is so important.

Intestacy Rules

Please see the flow chart below which shows the destination of the estate if a person dies intestate.

Homemade/Online Wills

It is common for people to prepare their own wills. However, this could cause issues in the future. We have seen homemade wills that have not been witnessed correctly or drafted correctly. A badly drafted will could mean your estate will not pass in accordance with your wishes. This could in turn create an emotional and financial burden for your loved ones.

We always recommend that clients come to see us to create a will. We can ensure the will is drafted correctly and in accordance with your wishes. With a homemade will, a small mistake could render the entire document invalid. Additionally, we retain detailed file notes which means any mistakes can be rectified more easily.

Our private client team are knowledgeable professionals here to guide you and provide advice on your wills. We can also store the original will to give you additional peace of mind.

Other reasons to make a will

• If you have young children, you can select their guardians in the event of your death.

• You can give instructions in respect of your funeral.

• You can instruct how you want your property to be disposed of.

• You can name your own executors (the person or people who will deal with your estate).

• A will could deal with some inheritance tax issues.

Please do remember that wills are revoked on marriage (unless drafted in contemplation of marriage).

If your circumstances have changed, it is important to have your will reviewed.  

We have offices in the local area, Bingley, Bradford and Ilkley.

If you would like any advice on wills, estate planning or probate issues, please do get in touch with our friendly and professional team to discuss further.

Bingley office – 01274 723858

Bradford office – 01274 735511

Ilkley office – 01943 601173