In this guide, we will talk you through what to expect and consider when writing a will with Slater Heelis solicitors.
slater heelis
exceeding expectations
Writing your will
What to expect when preparing your will
Writing your will can be a daunting task that many people may be reluctant to do. However, planning for the future is one of the most responsible steps you can do to ensure your wishes are followed and your loved ones are taken care of – even when you are no longer around.
When it comes to estate planning, one of the first steps a person should take is to write a will, and to do this, you should seek the assistance of an SRA qualified legal professional to ensure that all options are considered, risks to your estate are minimal and your wishes are properly recorded. In this comprehensive guide, we will walk you through what to expect when you come to write a will with Slater Heelis. This will help you approach the process with confidence, ensuring that your final will reflects your circumstances and wishes and is legally binding.
When using Slater Heelis, you’re in good hands. We are highly-rated by our customers with more than one thousand five-star reviews across Review Solicitors and Google Reviews. Our solicitors are recognised by the Legal 500, Society of Trust & Estate Practitioners (STEP) and Solicitors for the Elderly (SFE).
Before arranging your first meeting with us, it’s essential to recognise why writing a will is a crucial step in your estate planning journey. A will is a formal and binding legal document that outlines how you want your assets to be distributed and your wishes to be carried out after your death. Here are some key points to keep in mind: • Executor: You will need to name an executor who will administer your estate and arrange the distribution of your estate according to your instructions. • Asset Distribution: A will allows you to specify who will inherit your property, assets, and possessions. • Guardianship: If you have children under eighteen years of age, a will enables you to appoint a guardian who will take care of them in the event of your death. • Minimising Conflicts: Having a clear and legally-binding will can help prevent disputes and conflicts among your beneficiaries and relatives. Understanding the importance of writing a will
Preparing for the meeting
Before meeting with us, there are several steps we ask that you carry out to ensure a productive and efficient consultation:
• Special Requests: If you have specific wishes, such as charitable donations or instructions for your funeral arrangements, these should be clearly outlined. • Questions and Concerns: Write down any questions or concerns you have about the process or your will. If you have any specific concerns regarding family members or anybody else who may cause problems after your death, these can be discussed in complete confidence with your solicitor.
• Gather Information: Make a list of your assets, liabilities, and personal belongings. Include details about bank accounts, investments, real estate, and any other valuables you own. • Beneficiaries and Guardians: Decide on the beneficiaries of your estate and, if applicable, who you want to designate as guardians for your children or dependents. • Executor: Choose someone you trust to be the executor of your will, someone who will ensure your wishes are carried out. Your executors can be related to you, many people appoint their children to be their executors. You may be interested to note that your executors and the people you intend to inherit your estate can be the same people, if this is what you wish.
The initial consultation
The first meeting with your solicitor at Slater Heelis is typically a consultation-style meeting. This is where you will discuss your estate planning needs and objectives. Here’s what you can expect during this meeting:
• Options and Recommendations: Based on your input, the solicitor may present various options for structuring your will and provide recommendations to ensure your wishes are met. • Cost Estimate: You will receive an estimate of the legal fees associated with drafting your will. • Next Steps: The solicitor will outline the next steps in the process, which may include providing necessary documents and information.
• Introduction: You will meet with a legal professional, who will introduce themselves and the firm’s services. • Confidentiality: Your information and discussions during the meeting will be kept confidential. • Listening to Your Needs: The solicitor will listen to your instructions and wishes for creating a will. They may ask questions to understand your financial situation, family dynamics, and any special requests. • Legal Guidance: Slater Heelis will
provide legal advice tailored to your unique circumstances – advising you of ways to minimise risks to your estate and how you can best protect your loved ones and finances. They will explain the legal requirements and implications of your decisions.
Drafting your will
Once you have discussed your wishes in the initial consultation, your solicitor will draft your will. This phase involves the following steps: • Reviewing Information: The firm will carefully review the information you provided, ensuring all your assets, beneficiaries, and special requests are accurately recorded. • Legal Language: Your solicitor will use precise legal language to draft the will, ensuring it complies with all applicable laws. • Executor and Guardian Designations: Your chosen executor and guardian will be formally appointed in the will. • Signing and Witnessing: It is recommended that you attend for a second appointment to sign your will, at which your solicitor will ensure that it is properly executed according to legal requirements.
Finalising the will
Once you’ve completed the process, rest-easy knowing that you and your loved ones are protected. Writing a will is a vital aspect of estate planning, and working with a reputable firm like Slater Heelis can ensure that your wishes are legally documented and protected. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can expect a smooth and productive experience when meeting with our legal experts to write your will. Remember that a well-crafted will provides peace of mind, knowing that your loved ones will be cared for and your assets distributed as you intend.
After the will is drafted, you will have the opportunity to review and make any necessary revisions. Here’s what to expect during this phase: • Reviewing your draft will: Depending on your preferences, we will either email or post a copy of your draft will to review and address any questions or concerns. • Revisions: If you want to make changes, your solicitor will discuss your changes and make the necessary revisions and provide an updated draft for your review. • Approval: Once you are satisfied with the contents, you will approve the final version of the will and be invited to the offices to sign the documents in front of two independent witnesses. We will provide the witnesses. After your will is finalised, Slater Heelis will assist with the safekeeping and distribution of copies: • Safe Storage: The firm will keep your will (the original, signed document) in a secure location. • Providing Copies: You will receive copies of the will to keep with your important documents. • Informing Executors: Slater Heelis can inform your chosen executor of their role and responsibilities. Safekeeping and distribution
Get in touch with our team
With specialists across all fields of law, we will help you achieve the results you want.
intouch@slaterheelis.co.uk 0330 111 3131 slaterheelis.co.uk
exceeding expectations
@SlaterHeelisLaw /slaterheelis
Page 1 Page 2 Page 3 Page 4 Page 5 Page 6 Page 7 Page 8Made with FlippingBook - Online magazine maker