Family structures are complex in the 21st century. Increases in second marriages over the past decade has led to more blended families and testators having to consider stepchildren.
Whereas people marrying for the first time have fallen from 176 thousand marriages in 2012 to 159 thousand in 2017, remarriages have held firm at a five year average of 37 thousand up to 2017, the most recent figures available, according to the Office for National Statistics (ONS).
As more people cohabitate and blend their families, what do people need to consider when making a Will?
It is important to understand that inheritance laws in England and Wales do not automatically recognise stepchildren in intestacy law. This means that if you die without a valid Will your estate will not necessarily be inherited by your stepchildren.
The only way to ensure your express wishes regarding your estate are considered is to write a valid Will.
English and Welsh law offers ‘testamentary freedom’ which allows the testator the right to leave your property and belongings to whomever you choose. If you fail to write a Will, your estate will automatically pass to your spouse and biological children. By writing a valid Will, you are able to specify who will inherit and how much they will receive.
If you are looking to create complete fairness and equality in the amount biological and stepchildren inherit, a Will is crucial.
A valid Will can also avoid contentious probate issues arising after your death. If you die and your property is passed to your children’s stepparent, animosity or concern may develop, but your Will and estate planning considerations can help to pacify any feelings of concern. After all, if a Will passes the entirety of an estate to a spouse, then your children may be disinherited after your spouse dies.
Adding a Trust in your Will could allow your spouse the freedom of living in the property whilst also providing certainty that your children are provided for in the future.
Asking a professional to draft a valid Will and Trust has never been so important, especially when living through such uncertain times. Rest assured that the services provided by (name business) are efficient, easy and individualised to the unique needs of each testator.
Our specialists are ready to help protect your final wishes, contact us today.
Cornerstone Wills are experts at ensuring you protect your future exactly how you wish. Speak to one our friendly team today, call us on 01276 415835/6/7