We have written on numerous occasions of the danger of either failing to leave a will or of not taking professional advice when making your will. In this article solicitor Emma Walker looks at the risks involved in doing a DIY will.
The risks of DIY wills
Among the difficulties that can arise with DIY wills are challenges by family members who have been excluded from benefit, a failure by the person making the will to be sufficiently precise regarding the identities of beneficiaries – for example when leaving bequests to charities, or provisions that create unforeseen tax issues. Many more problems can occur and, in part, that is because of the strict rules that apply in the UK regarding what does and what does not constitute a valid will.
How can inheritance disputes arise
However, following a recent consultation exercise, the Law Commission has proposed that the courts should be given a ‘dispensing power’ enabling them to order the distribution of an estate when there is a clear expressed intention by the deceased…examples of which may include emails or video recordings.
Whilst this proposal seems like a good idea and would be welcome where there is no potential source of contention, it is easy to anticipate where and how disputes could arise. In particular, there may well be instances where an expressed ‘last wish’ ends up creating a dispute or unforeseen tax consequences. In particular, some charities are likely to take a contentious stance if they have been included in an earlier will and find themselves excluded by a change in intention at the eleventh hour.
How to avoid wills disputes
Emma Walker, a solicitor in our wills and probate team at Watson Ramsbottom commented: “A will made with the benefit of expert legal advice will always be the best way of ensuring that your estate is passed to those you want to benefit from it and your family assets are protected. Furthermore, wills should be kept under regular review and changed if circumstances demand it.”