WHAT HAPPENS WITHOUT A WILL?

Without a will the law has its own standard formula (the Intestacy Rules) for how your estate is shared between your spouse, children, parents and more distant family members. These rules don’t take account of any wishes you may have nor the particular needs of your family. It’s very rare that these rules will do what you want or even hope. This process is also typically longer than if you have a will and your nearest and dearest may have to wait before they can draw money from your estate. It’s not uncommon for there to be disputes about who gets what and the distress that goes along with that. A will puts you in control and let’s you decide how your loved ones should be provided for after you’ve gone.