Your Questions Answered

Do I really need a Will? 

Yes, you should always leave a clear and legally binding statement of your wishes, whatever the size of your estate. For example, not all married couples inherit from each other. In most cases the deceased's nearest blood relative will inherit, leaving the surviving partner to bring a claim against the deceased's parents or children for adequate provision. If there is no Will and the parties are married, the surviving spouse will share the estate with any children, including those from past relationships. 

I have no partner; won't my estate go to my children?

It might do, but at what age, and who will look after the assets until then? What powers will they have? Who will be the children's legal guardian? Your Will should cover all these issues.

I have a same sex partner; what do I do?

We at Anthony Gold are specialists in same sex Wills, not only in advising on the Wills themselves but also in related issues such as the ownership of joint property, the nomination of pension death benefits and the making of "Living Wills".

Isn't it complicated?

It needn't be and in any case it is our job to deal with the complexities for you and ensure your wishes are expressed clearly and without ambiguity.

Wills are expensive, aren't they?

A basic Will can cost about £150 plus VAT. For a couple making Wills in similar terms, the total cost can be about £200 plus VAT. More complex situations do of course require more detailed advice, the cost of which we would agree with you in advance.

What will my Will say?

You will appoint executors and trustees to deal with your assets and any Will trusts that are created, make any particular gifts of items or sums of money, and of course say who receives your remaining estate after all debts and expenses are paid. You may also need to appoint guardians for your minor children, and place conditions on the gifts you give to the children.

What about Inheritance Tax?

A properly drawn Will can significantly reduce the amount of Inheritance Tax payable on your estate. Once we know more about you, we can advise on the best structure for your Will, taking into account any lifetime gifts already made or that you intend to make.

What do I do next?

Complete our will questionnaire or contact us for further information.

Should I do anything else?

There are usually three other issues to consider - do you hold joint property, have life insurance or a pension plan that pays death in service benefits? In each case some action might be needed beyond the making of the Will itself. We can advise you on these issues.

What happens once the Will is signed?

You are welcome to leave the original Will in safe keeping at our offices. There are no storage charges. Please let us know of any later changes in your circumstances that might require the Will to be updated.

Our related services

We deal with the administration of estates and the setting up and administration of trusts. We also deal with all taxation aspects.