Around half of UK adults don't have a will. Many assume their partner or children will inherit automatically, but the law doesn't always agree.
What happens without a will
If you die without a will, the intestacy rules decide who inherits. Unmarried partners have no automatic right to anything, however long you've lived together. Stepchildren aren't included either, and your estate could end up with relatives you haven't spoken to in years.
Choosing guardians for your children
A will is the only way to formally name guardians for children under 18. Without one, the court decides, which can be stressful and slow for everyone involved at the worst possible time.
Keeping it up to date
Marriage automatically revokes an existing will in England and Wales, while divorce changes how it works. We suggest a quick review every five years or after any big life change, such as a new baby, house move or business sale.
Getting started
Making a will at Calder Street Legal usually takes one meeting and a signing appointment. We'll talk through your family and assets, explain the options in plain English and store the original free of charge.
Written by
David Kerr
Senior Associate, Private Client
Full STEP member advising on wills, trusts, LPAs and estate administration.
