Every year, around 1 in 3 people die without making a will, and the number of enquiries relating to people dying without making a will, or ‘intestacy’ has more than doubled in recent years.
Where a person dies without making a will, their assets are shared out according to the rules of intestacy, and potentially not in the way the deceased would have wished.
The intestacy rules make no provision for unmarried partners, irrespective of how long you have been together. Even if you are married, your spouse may not inherit as much as you wish without a valid will. If you are married but have separated, the intestacy rules provide that your spouse would still inherit. If you die without a spouse or children, then your estate will be divided among your surviving relatives in accordance with the rules, or where there are no surviving relatives, to the Crown.
To avoid getting caught out, and ensure your wishes are followed, you should make a will. Even if already you have a will, it is also important to review this every few years to ensure this still suits your requirements.
When you make a will, you can decide who you would like to deal with everything when you pass away, specify who you would like to receive your assets and personal belongings and even appoint a guardian for your children.
At Ringrose Law our prices start from as little as £170 +VAT for a Single Will. We also offer free Will reviews at all our offices. If you would like to discuss making a Will, or would like some advice in relation to an intestacy, please get in touch with a member of our Wills & Probate team. We have offices located in Boston, Grantham, Lincoln, Sleaford, Spalding or Newark or call 01529 301300.