This week (4 – 8 March) is Update your Will Week

Phillips Law is encouraging people to consider the risks of not having a Will following new research revealing nearly half of UK adults (49%) do not have a Will in place, meaning their wishes might not be carried out when they die.

The research carried out by The Association of Lifetime Lawyers reveals that 1 in 10 UK adults have started making a Will but have not finished it, and nearly a third (32%) say they have not made a Will because they do not know how to get started.

The Association of Lifetime Lawyers represents a community of the most qualified legal professionals in the UK supporting vulnerable and older people with expert advice and support. At Phillips Law we have 4 accredited Lifetime Lawyers including Sian Lias, Lisa Perry, Claire-Marie Selwood and Nicola Browett.

Sian Lias, Legal Director at Phillips Law said these worrying findings could leave many bereaved familied distressed if their loved ones have not communicated their wishes legally through a Will. Sian continued:

“We all know how important this type of life admin is, but the research shows just how hard people find it to get started. It does not need to take a long time to prepare or update your will, especially if you have an expert to guide you through the process. Sorting this admin now will reduce the burden on your loved ones after your death and reduce the risk of disputes that can be costly in time and money to resolve.”

The research also shows 21% of Wills are handwritten or have handwritten amendments which could make them illegible and therefore difficult to understand. To get your Will right, it is always safest to speak to a specialist like an accredited Lifetime Lawyer who can help you plan for the future and communicate your wishes in the right way.

It is best practice to review and update your Will every five years, or when a major change in your life occurs that could impact you or your loved ones. This could include a marriage, divorce, a new birth or a death in the family.

If you are not sure where to get started with writing your Will, read this useful advice on what to consider.

We recommend you get in touch with our Wills team today to make sure you are on top of this important piece life admin.

Contact details: [email protected]  |  01256 460830