A Will is an important document as it allows you to stipulate what happens to your estate after your death. It is advisable to consult a specialist when looking to make a Will. Ask about the cost; some organisations or lawyers may do this for free if they are also named as the executor of the estate. However, often administration costs are more than if you had paid for this in the first instance.
You can also make a ‘do it yourself ’ Will (such as via the Public Trust website), but you need to investigate this fully and comply with certain criteria in order for it to be deemed valid. In reality few people choose this option.
To be considered valid, a Will must be written by someone of sound mind who is not being coerced or unduly influenced. It needs to be signed by the person making the will and dated and witnessed by at least two people who are not beneficiaries of the Will.
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Updated: 28 Feb 2023