What happens to my estate without a Will?

A Will is a legally binding document. It is the only way to ensure that your wishes are carried out after your death.

Without a Will it always takes longer to finalise the distribution and closing of your estate. This means that your beneficiaries may not be able to get their hands on the money you intended for them. This could lead to arguments and avoidable distress for your relatives.

Here are some examples of how not having a Will may affect you:

Married couples/Civil Partners: Your spouse may only inherit part of your estate

Parents: Your children may be taken into care and it will be up to a court to decide who will be responsible for their upbringing

Unmarried couples: Your partner may receive nothing at all from your estate

Separated couples: Your spouse may inherit part of your property and may have continuing rights in the rest

Everybody: Items of personal sentiment or other value may only be left to those you desire if you have made a will.