Wills & Probate in Sefton
You never know what’s around the corner. Life is unpredictable but you can have peace of mind from knowing that your loved ones will be looked after when you’re gone.
Research suggests that 3 in 5 adults in the UK have not registered a will and are not aware that without putting your affairs in order you cannot be sure that your wishes will be fulfilled.
The law often fails to recognise more complicated family dynamics which can lead to upset, misunderstandings and in some cases, unresolved lifelong feuds that tear families apart. The estate of the deceased which may consist of prized personal possessions, assets and property can all lead to bitter disputes.
If you pass away without making a will to put your affairs in order, it is referred to as ‘intestacy’.
The intestacy process has clearly outlined rules that set out a strict order of succession in regard to who has an automatic claim on your estate. Any claims for a share in an intestacy estate must be lodged at the closest register office to Sefton which currently is the Liverpool District Probate Registry. This public body is responsible for dividing up the estate of individuals who die without making a will.
There are however several instances when loved ones don’t have an automatic claim:
- If you have lived with a partner, unmarried, for several years
- If you have stepchildren or children that you consider to be your own via a partner
The law clearly states that blood relatives are first in line to inherit your estate regardless of the relationship you had with these relatives, however strained or non-existent it may be.
Whilst judges will not ignore cases where you have been in a long, loving relationship with your partner and having a relationship with your stepchildren, the process of building a case can still be difficult. Your loved ones will have to prove their case by filing a challenge at the Probate Registry, a process which can span over a number of years leaving them with hefty legal bills and emotionally drained.
It is for this reason that writing a will is so important.
The process can feel uncomfortable, but our supportive team can help you throughout to put your mind at ease. Our team of specialist wills and probate solicitors will be more than happy to work closely with you to draft a watertight document that is in line with your personal wishes and priorities.
Our team are happy to accommodate any special considerations or gifts- providing they don’t invalidate your will.
At Wafer Phillips, we charge a flat fee of £120 for individual wills and £175 for joint spousal ones, also known as ‘mirrored wills’.
We will also provide you with the following:
- As many additional copies of the will as you would like
- Professional binding to ensure the document’s integrity
- Secure storage of either the original document (£5 fee) or a plain paper copy (no charge)
- Unlimited number of amendments for the remainder of your lifetime if you wish, or need, to make any changes
- Home visits throughout Sefton, and out-of-office hours appointments will be accommodated where possible to take initial instructions
Wafer Phillips have been assisting clients throughout Sefton for over 25 years. Our supportive and sympathetic, expert legal team are committed to helping you with all matters regarding wills and probate. If you are interested in finding out more or have any questions, please do not hesitate to call us today on 0151 256 7898 or email us at info@waferphillips.co.uk.
Come and visit our Sefton office to find out more
Call us today on 0151 256 7898 or email the office at enquiries@waferphillips.co.uk
