Key Things to Consider When Writing or Updating Your Will

Writing a Will isn’t just about deciding who gets what — it’s about making sure your wishes are understood and respected.

Here’s a clear list of the key things most people include in a Will, along with a few important choices you might not have thought about.

Who will carry out your wishes (Executors)

Your executors are the people who’ll be responsible for dealing with your estate — gathering in assets, paying any debts, and making sure everything is distributed according to your Will.

You can name one person, or more than one if you prefer.

Who should receive what (Beneficiaries)

Your Will can set out exactly who should inherit from you and what they receive. This might include:

• Money or savings
• Specific possessions (e.g. jewellery, furniture, collections)
• Shares or investments
• Your house or other property

You can also make gifts to charities or leave a general share of your estate to certain people.

Who should care for children or dependants (Guardians)

If you have children under 16 or others who depend on you, you can name guardians in your Will. This gives you peace of mind and helps avoid disputes if anything happens to you.

Back-up plans (Substitute beneficiaries)

You can include instructions in case one of your chosen beneficiaries dies before you. This helps avoid complications or confusion.

Funeral wishes (Optional)

Some people include funeral preferences in their Will such as burial or cremation, or requests for a simple or specific type of service. While these aren’t legally binding, they can guide your family when the time comes.

Anything else that matters to you

Your Will can reflect your values, your family setup, or special wishes. A solicitor can help make sure it’s all recorded clearly and legally.

Need help getting started?

We’ll talk you through your options and make sure your Will fits your situation — not someone else’s template.

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