Leatherhead Parish Church - Making a Will

September 2005 magazine
Updated your Will recently? This is the first in a series highlighting the benefits of both making a Will and keeping it up to date. Making a Will is the best way to ensure that those closest to you inherit what you intended.

If you die without leaving a valid Will the state will decide who gets what under the rules of intestacy. The result could be financial hardship for those you care most about. Many people assume that their estate will simply go to their partner. This is not necessarily the case, even if the partner is by marriage; at present, unmarried partners are not recognised under intestacy at all.

With appropriate advice, you can make sure that your estate goes to your chosen relatives, friends, and charities with as little as possible going to the tax man!

When you think about it, why would anyone not want to make a Will? The cost is low, especially compared with the legal costs that can arise under intestacy. We are fortunate in having a range of good solicitors in the local area. Once made, your Will should be regularly reviewed, to ensure that it remains up to date.

I have been appointed Parish Legacy Officer by our PCC to act as a focal point for information and queries on wills and legacies. This has arisen from a Diocesan initiative. We have some very user-friendly literature available upon request.

You might like to think about leaving a legacy to the Parish when making, or updating, your Will. These are a valuable source of income to help maintain, and develop, our Mission in the years ahead. Please let me know if you would like to discuss any of the issues raised here.
This article is for general guidance only and does not represent legal advice for which a solicitor or financial adviser with an understanding of your own situation should be consulted.
Andrew Chastney 09372 360442