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The ongoing crisis surrounding COVID-19 reminds us of our fragility (20 March 2020)

Date: 20/03/2020
Duncan Lewis, Legal News Solicitors, The ongoing crisis surrounding COVID-19 reminds us of our fragility

We live to protect the ones we love and cherish and there is no way better of doing this than to ensure that they are looked after once we pass away. Amidst the coronavirus crisis that is currently effecting countries worldwide, it is sensible to reflect to ensure that your financial affairs are in order.

In view of this, drafting a Last Will and Testament ensures your estate is distributed as you wish, as intestacy laws may come into effect if there is no valid will in place, and could result in your estate being distributed in ways you do not agree with.


What is a Last Will and Testament?

A Last Will and Testament is a binding testamentary document that sets out a testator’s / testatrix’s wishes on how they would like their estate to be administered. It is proof of ones wishes and can even include gifts, legacies and the gifting of properties. To this effect, it is noteworthy to understand that a joint tenancy may have to be severed, if a joint tenant wises to bequeath their share to a nominated beneficiary, otherwise the property may pass onto the surviving joint owner. In this instance, severing a joint tenancy is a service Duncan Lewis Solicitor can provide and advise on in greater depth as each circumstances differs.


Codicils

A will can always be changed providing that the testator / testatrix has capacity to make such changes by way of a codicil which is a supplement to a will, making slight alterations to the existing will. A codicil must be signed by the testator / testatrix with a witness present to make it valid, the witnesses can be different from the ones stipulated in the will that is being changed. You can make as many codicils as you want, providing that the changes are not hugely significant in nature, in which case; drafting a new will may be advised.

Accordingly, a spouse, civil partner or sibling may wish to draw up a mirror will, whereas an individual would be bested suited to draw up a single will.

Some of the main benefits of drafting a will include;


  1. Possessions will be distributed as you wish

  2. Executors are appointed and their powers outlined

  3. Reduce stress and heartache for loves ones

  4. Establish your funeral wish




In view of this, having a will in place makes the necessary arrangements to prevent families making inheritance claims against an estate which can be a tedious and costly process. To this effect, it has been reported that the number of high court disputes in connection with inheritance claims have increased by a staggering 62% (figure extracted in 2019). This figure can decrease if wills are put in place along with other relevant factors.

Drafting a will can be a smooth, stress-free, and comforting process if you consult an expert wills and probate solicitor for specialist advice. Duncan Lewis Solicitors offer a remote will drafting service which allows you to safely draw up your will without travelling to the office. Our clients’ best interests are paramount and of the upmost importance. We strive to draft wills within a one to two week turnaround time from the date of instruction.

Author Zeen Al Atroshi is a trainee solicitor in the wills and probate department at the Duncan Lewis Solicitors Harrow office. She works under the supervision of wills and probate director Caroline Roche. Zeen handles a variety of wills and probate matters including contentious and non-contentious probate matters; Lasting Power of Attorneys; and declaration of trusts.

To contact Zeen directly call 020 3114 1297 or email ZeenA@duncanlewis.com



Duncan Lewis Wills & Probate Department

Our wills and probate solicitors offer a comprehensive and personal service. As specialists, their expertise includes, drawing up wills, advising on inheritance tax, property law, and international wills. The team offer clear and focused advice, guiding you through the process.

We understand that drawing up a will or administering an estate can be an emotional experience, therefore, our specialist team will make sure that the future of your family is secure and your wishes are carried out.

To instruct a specialist wills and probate solicitor, call 033 3772 0409.

Call us now on 033 3772 0409 or click here to send online enquiry.
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