Will Writing Solicitors
Planning for your future can be a daunting prospect, but our dedicated team of will writing solicitors in Birmingham are here to help you.
Understanding the significance of creating a will cannot be underestimated—it is a crucial step in safeguarding your assets, ensuring your loved ones are taken care of, and that your final wishes are respected and executed according to your desires.
We recognise that every individual has their own unique situation, and our approach reflects that. Whether you’re looking to secure your children’s future, distribute your assets, or simply want peace of mind knowing your estate will be handled as you wish, our solicitors are here to guide you through the process with sensitivity and expertise.
Everything we do is open and transparent, so you can be sure of a full estimate of costs from the outset with no unexpected bills.
When should you consider drafting or updating your will?
Drafting or updating a will is a critical step in managing your estate and ensuring your wishes are fulfilled after you pass away. While it might seem like a task for the future, several key life events make it imperative to consider creating or revising your will:
- Major Life Changes: Significant events such as marriage, divorce, the birth of a child, or the adoption of a child should prompt a review of your will. These milestones can drastically change your preferences for guardianship, beneficiaries, and asset distribution.
- Acquisition or Disposal of Significant Assets: Buying a home, starting a business, or acquiring valuable personal property can significantly affect your estate’s value and distribution. Conversely, selling major assets may necessitate adjustments to your will to reflect your current financial situation.
- Changes in Relationships: Changes in your relationships with beneficiaries, executors, or guardians named in your will should trigger a review. This includes estrangement, improved relationships, or the death of someone named in your will.
- Tax Law Changes: Amendments to tax laws affecting inheritance, estates, or gifts may impact the efficiency and effectiveness of your current will in managing tax liabilities for your estate or your beneficiaries.
Even if none of the above changes occur, it’s wise to review your will periodically. Every three to five years is a common recommendation, ensuring it still reflects your wishes and accounts for any overlooked changes in your life or assets.
Choosing the right executor for your will
Selecting the right executor for your will is one of the most critical decisions you’ll make in the estate planning process. The executor is responsible for managing your estate after your passing, including paying off debts, distributing assets according to your wishes, and ensuring that all aspects of your will are carried out efficiently and respectfully.
What are the benefits of seeking legal advice for will writing
While it may be tempting to write a will on your own, especially with the availability of online templates, seeking legal advice from experienced will writing solicitors offers significant benefits.
Our team understands that every situation is different, and a “one size fits all” approach can’t be taken. We provide bespoke advice that reflects your personal circumstances, ensuring your will is tailored to your exact requirements. This includes complex family situations, business ownerships, or provisions for vulnerable dependants.
Another important consideration is the laws governing wills and estates. These laws are complex. At RLK we are well-versed in these laws and can help navigate the legal intricacies, ensuring your will is valid, legally binding, and free from errors that could lead to disputes or your wishes being unfulfilled.
Beyond simply drafting a will, we can offer valuable insights into comprehensive estate planning, including tax implications, setting up trusts, and strategies for asset protection. This approach ensures that all aspects of your estate are considered, potentially saving your beneficiaries significant time and money in the future.
Peace of mind packs
Our ‘peace of mind packs’ have been specially tailored to provide everything you need to ensure your affairs are put in order.
For couples
Our pack for couples includes wills incorporating a trust, powers of attorney for finances, health and welfare and information on care fees, planning and choosing a care home.
You also have access to information and guidance on tax planning, where the estate exceeds the current Inheritance tax (IHT) threshold.
For single clients
Our pack for single clients provides a will, powers of attorney and advice on setting up trusts. It includes advice on the care funding system and tax funding, as well as choosing a care home.
Shopping around?
If you are searching for professional wills and probate services in Birmingham, please remember to compare like for like. We offer a very personal and friendly will writing and probate service, with a transparent fee structure.