Why Every Adult Needs a Will in England and Wales
Why Every Adult Needs a Will in England and Wales
Many people believe that Wills are only necessary later in life or once you own significant assets. In reality, every adult should have a valid Will in place, regardless of age, wealth, or family circumstances.
A Will is not just about money. It is about control, clarity, and peace of mind for the people you leave behind.
What Happens If You Die Without a Will?
If you die without a Will in England and Wales, your estate is distributed according to the intestacy rules. These rules are fixed in law and may not reflect your wishes at all.
For example:
Unmarried partners receive nothing, no matter how long you lived together
Stepchildren are not recognised
Your estate may pass to relatives you have little or no contact with
Loved ones can face delays, added stress, and unnecessary costs
In some cases, families are left dealing with disputes that could easily have been avoided with proper planning.
A Will Lets You Decide What Happens
A properly drafted Will allows you to:
Decide who inherits your estate
Appoint executors you trust
Make provision for children and dependants
Include gifts to charities or friends
Set out funeral wishes
Without a Will, those decisions are taken out of your hands.
Wills Are Not Just for Homeowners
Even if you do not own property, a Will is still important. Savings, personal possessions, digital assets, and even sentimental items all form part of your estate.
A Will ensures these are dealt with clearly and according to your wishes.
Life Changes and Your Will
Major life events should trigger a review of your Will, including:
Marriage or divorce
Having children or grandchildren
Buying or selling property
Changes in financial circumstances
The death of a beneficiary or executor
An outdated Will can be just as problematic as having no Will at all.
Why Professional Advice Matters
DIY Wills and online templates often fail to account for individual circumstances or changes in the law. Errors can invalidate a Will or create uncertainty that leads to disputes later on.
Professional Will writing ensures your Will is:
Legally valid
Clearly worded
Tailored to your personal circumstances
Aligned with current legislation in England and Wales
Taking the First Step
Putting a Will in place is one of the most responsible things you can do for your loved ones. It removes uncertainty, reduces stress, and ensures your wishes are respected.
At SLS Wills and More, the initial consultation allows us to understand your circumstances and explain your options clearly. Where you require specific advice or document preparation, this is provided on a fixed-fee basis so there are no surprises.
