Wills and Estate Planning
A will sets out who should receive your money, property and possessions when you die. It can also record important decisions about the people who will deal with your estate. We help you put those wishes into clear documents and talk through the choices that need more thought.
- Your wishes recorded
- Family circumstances considered
- Clear explanations
- Help when things change
Making a will that fits your circumstances
A will should reflect your own family, finances and priorities. You may want to leave everything to one person, make gifts to several people or provide for a partner while preserving something for children. We ask about your circumstances before suggesting how your wishes could be recorded.
The people named to deal with your estate are called executors. Their role can involve gathering information about your assets, paying debts and distributing what is left. We explain that responsibility so you can consider who would be suitable and willing to act.
What we discuss with you
- The people and organisations you want to leave gifts to
- Your home, savings, investments and other significant assets
- Anyone who depends on you financially
- Who you would like to act as an executor
- Any wishes about guardians for children
- Existing wills, trusts or arrangements that may affect your decisions
You do not need to arrive with every answer. Some people know exactly what they want, while others need time to consider different options. We can explain the questions that arise and help you decide what information is needed before a draft is prepared.
Planning beyond a simple will
Estate planning looks at how your arrangements work together. The way you own your home, existing family commitments and assets held outside your sole name may affect what a will can achieve. We discuss the relevant points and identify where specialist advice may be needed.
Some families need more detailed arrangements, including a trust within a will. A trust is a legal arrangement under which assets are held and managed for others. It is not appropriate for every situation. We explain the purpose, responsibilities and limitations of any option we discuss, without promising a particular tax or care funding result.
Updating an existing will
A marriage, separation, new child, bereavement or change in your finances can be a reason to review your will. Bring a copy of the existing document if you have one. We can check whether it still reflects your wishes and explain whether a new will or formal amendment is appropriate.
Avoid writing changes directly onto a signed will. Changes need to be made properly. We also explain the signing and witnessing arrangements for the document we prepare, because the wording alone is not enough to make a will valid.
Start with a conversation
Contact our Blackburn or Blackpool team to discuss making or reviewing a will. Tell us a little about your family, whether you already have a will and any particular concern. We can explain the likely work and fees before you decide how to proceed.
Your questions answered
What happens if I die without a will?
have chosen. The result depends on your family circumstances and the assets involved. If you are concerned about a partner, children or other dependants, discuss those concerns when arranging your will.
Can an unmarried partner inherit under my will?
You can make provision for an unmarried partner in your will. It is important to consider how property is owned and whether anyone else has a financial interest or dependency. Tell us about your household and existing commitments so the advice reflects your situation.
Can we make wills as a couple?
Yes, you can discuss your wishes together, but each person has their own will. Your intentions may be similar without being identical. We will explain how the documents work and address any differences or circumstances that need separate consideration before the wills are prepared.
Does a will cover decisions while I am alive?
No. A will takes effect after death. Authority for another person to make certain decisions during your lifetime involves different arrangements, such as a lasting power of attorney. Tell us if this is part of your planning so we can confirm the advice and services available.
Client feedback
What our clients say
Read about the experiences of people who have worked with our team.
Debra
Blackburn
Michael
Preston
Blackburn & Blackpool
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