Many people find it difficult even to consider making a Will.

This really isn’t so surprising – few of us can comfortably bring ourselves to consider our own mortality and yet, if we look at it logically, few would probably argue that it does make a lot of sense to make a Will. It takes only a few hours of your time and yet the benefits to your loved ones can be immeasurable. You may already have been involved with the winding up of an estate or perhaps spoken with someone who has and if you have, you will know that the process is quite simply a lot easier if there is a Will. Subject to certain safeguards for your wife or husband and children, a Will lets YOU decide what happens to your property and possessions after you’re gone.

If you didn't have a Will, there's immediate issues for those you leave behind. For example, your funeral - is it church burial or cremation? Where? How is it to be paid? Who would be willing to take in and look after your pet - after all with vet bills and daily food that could cost someone £1000 per year? When it comes to your estate, some people of course get automatic rights and priority, and that might be adequate in an uncomplicated situation where you intend that (after debt payment) your property and possessions should go to them. However, many situations and estates are less straightforward, and your no-Will outcome may not necessarily be what you intended. For example, in a second marriage, without a Will the children of your first marriage could lose out entirely or what about your second spouse's children from an earlier marriage? What if you have no direct family? What about lifelong friends? What if you have a business, partnership or shareholding? Charity donations? Debts?