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The law of Will & Testament is a field of legal practice in the United Kingdom that focuses on two key things: planning for one's assets and affairs in case of death and dealing with the matters of distribution of assets after death. In Bristol, like in the remainder of the UK, laws on wills & estates are governed by the Wills Act 1837 and the Administration of Estates Act 1925. A Will or Testament is a legal document that expresses a person's wishes as to how their property is to be distributed at their death, and names one or more persons to manage the estate until its final distribution.
Planning for the future can be complex, especially where your estate and loved ones are concerned. A lawyer can help you avoid common pitfalls and ensure your will is valid and clear. Lawyers can also assist in creating a testament that is difficult to contest. In the event of the death of a loved one, a lawyer can help with the administration of an estate, including securing probate, resolving inheritance tax issues, and distributing assets amongst beneficiaries.
In Bristol, and the United Kingdom as a whole, a will must be in writing, signed by the person making the will (the testator), and witnessed by two individuals who are not beneficiaries. The testator must also have the mental capacity to understand their actions. If these requirements are not met, the will may be declared invalid. Estate matters are often complex and involve tax issues, possible intestacy if there isn't a valid will, and conflicts among potential beneficiaries.
When a person dies without a will, the law describes this as dying 'intestate'. The rules of intestacy will then dictate how your estate is divided, which may disagree with your actual wishes.
Yes, you can draft a will by yourself. However, it is advisable to get legal assistance to ensure the will is valid and covers all relevant aspects of your estate.
Any person who is not a beneficiary in the will, over 18, and of sound mind can be a witness in a Will.
Yes, you can change a will anytime you wish. However, the correct legal processes must be followed, often involving rewriting the whole will or adding a supplement called a codicil.
While a will does not cover the payment of inheritance tax, it can set out how any tax owed should be paid from your estate.
Bristol City Council provides helpful guides and resources related to planning and executing wills and handling estate matters. Additionally, the Citizens Advice Bureau offers free advice on the laws concerning wills, probate, and inheritance tax.
If you require legal assistance in will & testament matters in Bristol, consider reaching out to a law firm specializing in this field. They can guide you through the process of making a will, answering your questions, and ensuring your wishes for your estate are carried out appropriately.
