Writing a Will and planning for the future can be relatively simple, but unfortunately many people do not leave a Will, which can mean their wishes for how their assets are distributed will not be in accordance with their wishes. Leaving a Will can give you certainty in the knowledge that your loved ones will be provided for, and with careful planning it can also help to avoid huge inheritance tax payments, and can cover other areas such as how your children should be looked after, and funeral plans and any wishes to bequeath money or property to charity.
Our specialist Wills and executry solicitors are experts in their field, and can offer guidance and clarity in what can often be a complex process. We can assist you with any Will planning or estate issues including the following:
- Writing a Will
- Executry
- Trusts
- Intestacy/Probate (an Estate where there is no valid Will)
Making a Will in Scotland
You can make a Will in Scotland if you are over twelve years old and of sound mind. There are certain rules attached to making a Will, for example, it is not possible to make a Will that disinherits your spouse or descendants; the spouse or descendants will always be entitled to a share of moveable property from the estate (property other than land or houses). If you have a child after making your Will, and the Will does take the possibility of children into consideration, the Will may be held to be invalid.
Appointing an Executor
When drafting a Will, an Executor should be appointed. The Executor is responsible for dealing with assets of the estate, and their role includes:
- Valuing the estate Apply for authority to manage money/property of the estate (Grant of Confirmation) Collecting all of the assets of the estate Ensuring all debts and taxes are paid Distributing the estate in accordance with the Will
Often solicitors are named as executors, but anyone can act as executor for an estate, and usually family members are appointed as they are also beneficiaries of the Estate.
Keeping your Will Safe
It is important to keep your Will in a safe place. When you instruct our solicitor to write your Will, a copy of the Will is stored in a fire-proof safe. This will give you the peace of mind in the knowledge that there will be no problems locating your Will when you die, or when you want to make amendments your Will.
Contact our Specialist Wills Lawyers in Dumbarton Today
Our team of Wills lawyers are friendly and approachable, with many years of experience in the field. We can help you create a Will to suit your individual needs and can advise you on any estate administration issues. Contact our solicitors now via our online contact form, or give us a call on 01389 767 625.