2nd–8th March marks Update Your Will Week – and to kick things off, our Wills & Probate Team explain why having a valid, up-to-date will is more important than ever.
What will happen if I die without a will?
If you don’t decide what happens to your estate, the law will.
Without a will, your estate will be distributed under the UK’s intestacy rules.
These rules set out who inherits – and in what order – regardless of personal wishes, family dynamics, or verbal promises. For many families, that outcome isn’t what was intended.
Why is it important to have an up-to-date will?
Family circumstances can change – and so can relationships, finances and intentions.
Recent research by the Association of Lifetime Lawyers shows that 78% of UK lawyers have seen an increase in contested estates over the past five years. Many disputes arise due to:
- No will being in place
- Poorly drafted DIY wills
- Unequal distribution between children
- The complexities of blended families
How can we help?
A clearly drafted, regularly reviewed will can significantly reduce the risk of disputes.
Whether you need to update an existing will or put one in place for the first time, our Wills & Probate Team can help.
Please don’t hesitate to contact us by email at mail@hatchers.co.uk, or by telephone on 01743 248545. You can also get started by filling out our Contact Us form.
