Receiving the news that an illness is terminal and that you are approaching the end of your life is extremely difficult for anyone. The news will take time to sink in, as will the next steps regarding your care and your family. One thing many people do once they receive terrible news such as this is write or amend their will.
Is a Will Essential?
Legally speaking, a will is not essential. However, if you want your loved ones to receive your estate as per your wishes once you pass away, then making a will is necessary. Getting your finances and estate for when the time comes is at the top of the priority list for many terminally ill people, particularly if they have significant assets and a family they want to look after. Writing a will helps to solidify your wishes regarding your estate and put your mind at ease. Knowing that you have made plans to take care of your family once you have passed is comforting to many.
Dying Without a Will
Passing away without a will could cause delays, pressure and upset for your family when it comes to dealing with your estate. It could mean your assets go to people you may not have intended them to. An example of this would be if you were to have a long-term partner you were not married to; they may not be entitled to anything from your estate without a will. A death without a will often leads to the beneficiaries differing from what the deceased would have wanted.
How to Make a Will
A professional will writing service, such as Probate a Will, is the best way to ensure your will is efficient and legal. You must have testamentary compacity to make a will, which means you must be of sound mind and not under influences that could affect your decision. Some medical conditions can affect your capacity to make a will, including dementia and some forms of mental illness. Contact a doctor to confirm capacity if you feel it may be in doubt.
In Summary
A terminal illness is heart-breaking for the patient and their loved ones. Getting affairs in order is key to ensuring all patient wishes are taken into account. Writing or updating a will is not a complicated process and can make a difference to the family of a terminally ill loved one.
Contact Probate a Will for help with will writing and probate on 0203 9859554.
