If you have found my site because it contains the word ‘free’, you are probably one of the many people who would like to have a go at writing their own Will? But when it comes to the crunch, those same people are scared they will either miss something or someone out or word things incorrectly. This site is intended to help you with those issues.
1. If you look at ‘Create a Will’ you will find a logical list of the things you need to consider when making a Will. This will give you food for thought and will probably raise issues you haven’t even thought of. If the value and make-up of your estate means that your Will is straight forward then by all means use this information to write your own (also see 2. below). However, if there is anything you are unsure of, I suggest you contact me, preferably by email and I will get back to you to discuss your Will probably by phone.
My charge for a single, simple Will is only £45 anyway, so you may decide that is a small price to pay for peace of mind and the use of my services.
2. If you do still decide to try to write your own Will then don’t worry too much about jargon. The most important thing is that your Will makes it very clear exactly what it is you want. There must be no ambiguity! Keep it simple!
3. Almost the most important part is the signing and witnessing.
It MUST be witnessed in front of two people, neither of whom must be mentioned in the Will and ideally, not related to anyone mentioned either. Both witnesses MUST be present at the time you sign it. You sign it first while they watch. They MUST see you do it. They then put their signature, their FULL NAMES (not initials!), their address and occupation. Don’t forget to DATE it!!
If you still decide to write your own Will, I would urge you to send your Will (once completed) to me to be put into safe storage. One in three Wills is never found! Another advantage of this is that I will check it has been signed correctly, and that it is understandable!!! If it is NOT I will get back to you. The charge for this service is £10 for the first year and then just £5 per year after that, payable by standing order. Once again, what price peace of mind? You would be sent cards to give to all of your executors so that EVERYONE knows where your Will is being held. (Kings Court Trust Corporation, Bath)