Many people invest time, money, and effort into preparing their Wills, only to put the validity through improper execution at risk. This issue is particularly prevalent with Do-It-Yourself (DIY) Wills. This article aims to shed light on the significance of correct execution and highlights three common mistakes people make when preparing and signing their Wills.
Not having the Will witnessed correctly: One of the fundamental errors is failing to have the Will witnessed properly. The document must be signed in the presence of two independent witnesses, both over the age of 18. Careful selection of witnesses is crucial to prevent challenges to the Will's validity.
Not reviewing the Will: Successfully signing a Will is not the end of the process. Regular reviews, especially after significant life events, are essential to ensure the Will remains effective. Overlooking this step can lead to unintended consequences and complications.
Wishes being unclear: The clarity of your wishes within the Will is paramount. Some Wills suffer from either excessive specificity or ambiguity. Being overly specific, such as designating a particular car to a beneficiary, can create issues if assets change and the Will isn't updated. Conversely, vagueness in gift distribution, especially regarding future grandchildren, may lead to unintended exclusions.
To safeguard the integrity of your Will and ensure your wishes are carried out as intended, it is imperative to address these common mistakes.
Seeking advice from a legal professional during the preparation and review stages can significantly contribute to the proper execution of your Will and provide peace of mind for you and your loved ones.
Please do contact me if you need help with your Will.
0207 183 4595
The information provided in this article is not intended to constitute professional advice and you should take full and comprehensive legal, accountancy or financial advice as appropriate on your individual circumstances by a fully qualified Solicitor, Accountant or Financial Advisor/Mortgage Broker before you embark on any course of action.