Wills & Estates
Statistics show that as many as 60% of Scots die without making a Will. For those left behind, this can make loss more troubling than it needs to be.
If you die without a Will, the process of appointing executors who are legally necessary to administer and settle the estate can incur major extra
costs and necessitate lengthy legal processes. Joint bank accounts and assets can be frozen while outcomes are determined.
Making a Will is a relatively simple process which can ensure that estate settlement goes as smoothly and rapidly as possible for those left behind.
At Barnetts, we believe everyone should take legal advice on the preparation of a Will for these reasons :
- You and your family will find that making a Will gives you peace of mind.
- If you have under age children then you can set out your wishes for them clearly.
- Over the years we have seen many 'home made' / DIY Wills. The majority of these contain mistakes, some of which make the Will invalid.
- Many people believe that making a Will takes a lot of time, effort and money. In reality most family Wills can be instructed, sometimes even by telephone, but mostly after a ten minute meeting. The cost through Barnetts is modest.
- A Will allows you to choose the person you trust to adminster your affairs after your death by appointing them as your Executor
- Some people think that they know who their beneficiary will be so it is not necessary to make a Will, unfortunately this is not always the case. The only way to ensure your wishes are carried out is to make a proper, legally binding Will. To find out more read this Scottish Office pamphlet.
Please never hesitate to ask our advice. We are always happy to help.