Writing a will is something many people delay, yet research from the Money and Pensions Service (MaPS) highlights just how widespread this issue is. A staggering 56% of UK adults aged 18 and over do not have a will, including 53% of those aged 50-64 and 22% of those aged 65 and over. This means millions of people risk leaving their loved ones with financial and legal uncertainty when they pass away.

Dying without a will—known as dying intestate—can make an already difficult time even more stressful for your family. Without clear instructions on how to handle your estate, the process can take longer, involve more legal steps, and may not distribute your assets in the way you intended. If you’re managing the estate of someone who has passed away without a will, key considerations include whether to use a solicitor or probate specialist, applying for probate, collecting assets, and ensuring debts and taxes are settled.

The Risks of Dying Without a Will

In the absence of a will, an estate is distributed according to intestacy laws, which may not align with your personal wishes. These rules can be more complex than you might expect, increasing the risk that your loved ones will not receive the provisions you intended for them.

Having a legally sound will is particularly important if:

  • You have minor children who need guardianship arrangements.
  • You live with a partner but are not married, as intestacy rules do not recognize unmarried couples.
  • You have stepchildren or children from a previous marriage, as intestacy laws only apply to biological or legally adopted children.
  • You have a blended family or complex financial affairs that require careful planning.

The reality is that intestacy laws do not reflect the complexities of modern family life, which is why having a will is crucial to ensuring your assets are distributed as you wish.

The Benefits of Having a Will

Creating a will offers significant benefits, including:

✅ Ensuring your wishes are legally recorded and honored.
✅ Reducing stress, delays, and costs for your loved ones.
✅ Allowing you to choose guardians for your children.
✅ Ensuring unmarried partners or stepchildren are provided for.
✅ Potentially reducing inheritance tax liabilities.

By making suitable provisions now, you can spare your family unnecessary complications and ensure that your legacy is handled with care.

Take Action Today

We are proud to be supporting ‘Update your Will Week’ alongside The Association of Lifetime Lawyers.

If you haven’t prepared your will or want to ensure your existing one is legally sound, it’s never too late to seek professional advice. Your legacy deserves the utmost care and attention. If you need guidance on writing or revising your will, our Wills, Life Planning, and Probate team is here to help. Contact us today to secure peace of mind for you and your loved ones. To talk to our team, simply fill out our online contact form, or call 08081 891596.