Writing a will is one of the most important legal tasks you can undertake, yet it is often postponed or overlooked entirely. For residents of Sidmouth, creating a valid and up-to-date will is not only a crucial step in ensuring your wishes are honoured but also in protecting your family’s future and financial security.
At Marley Solicitors, we understand that will writing can seem daunting. Our team is here to provide clear, localised support that helps individuals and families across Sidmouth take control of their estates with confidence and peace of mind.
Why writing a will is essential
A will that is deemed legally legitimate guarantees that your assets will be allocated in accordance with your desires upon your yourdeath. Without one, the law will decide how your estate is divided, which may not reflect your personal intentions.
Here are a few reasons why you should consider drafting a will with a trusted solicitor:
- Avoid family disputes
Clearly outlining your wishes can prevent disagreements among your loved ones, particularly in complex family situations. - Protect unmarried partners
The law does not automatically protect partners who are not married or in a civil partnership, even if you’ve lived together for many years. - Appoint guardians for children
If you have children under 18, a will lets you choose who will care for them in the event of your death. - Plan for inheritance tax
A well-written will can help minimise the amount of inheritance tax your estate may have to pay. - Ensure peace of mind
Knowing your affairs are in order allows you to focus on enjoying life, rather than worrying about the future.
Common misconceptions about will writing
Many people delay writing a will due to misunderstandings. Let’s clear up a few myths:
- “I’m too young to need a will”
Wills are not just for older people. Anyone with assets, dependants, or specific wishes for their estate should have a will in place. - “Everything will go to my spouse automatically”
This is not always true. If you die without a will (intestate), your estate may be divided according to rules that do not reflect your wishes. - “I can just write one myself”
While DIY wills exist, mistakes or unclear wording can lead to disputes or invalidation. Using a solicitor ensures your will is legally sound.
What should a will include?
Every will is personal, but most should include:
- A list of your assets (property, savings, investments, possessions)
- The names of your beneficiaries (who should receive what)
- Details of any specific gifts or donations
- Who will care for any dependents
- Your choice of executors (those who will manage the estate)
- Any wishes for your funeral or end-of-life arrangements
Marley Solicitors can guide you through each of these elements, ensuring nothing is missed.
Choosing a solicitor for will writing in Sidmouth
There are many reasons to choose a local solicitor when writing your will:
- Personalised advice
We understand the needs of families and individuals in Sidmouth, and offer tailored support based on your specific circumstances. - Face-to-face meetings
Local offices mean you can sit down with a solicitor in person, building a relationship based on trust. - Knowledge of regional estate matters
Property ownership, land use, and inheritance concerns can vary by area. A local legal expert is best placed to offer relevant insights.
At Marley Solicitors, our team combines technical legal knowledge with compassionate, confidential service.
When to update your will
Your will should be a living document that evolves with your life. You should consider reviewing or updating your will after any of the following events:
- Marriage or divorce
- Birth or adoption of children
- Death of a named beneficiary or executor
- Significant changes in financial circumstances
- Buying or selling property
- Relocation or changes in residency
Even if none of these life events occur, it’s wise to review your will every five years to ensure it still reflects your current wishes.
What happens if you die without a will?
If you die without a valid will, the law decides who inherits your estate. This is called dying intestate. Under the intestacy rules, only married or civil partners and close relatives can inherit, and even then, only in specific proportions.
This can result in:
- Children or stepchildren are unintentionally excluded.
- Partners being left without inheritance
- Assets going to relatives you had no relationship with
- Lengthy legal processes for those you leave behind
Writing a will is the only way to ensure that your estate is distributed the way you intend.
Costs of will writing in Sidmouth
Many people worry about the cost of making a will. At Marley Solicitors, we aim to keep our pricing clear and competitive. We offer:
- Fixed-fee wills for individuals and couples
- Transparent pricing with no hidden costs
- Additional services like Lasting Powers of Attorney and trusts
Our goal is to make professional will writing accessible to everyone in the Sidmouth community.
Make your will with Marley Solicitors
If you’re based in Sidmouth and considering writing a will, don’t delay. Our friendly, professional team at Marley Solicitors is here to help you every step of the way.
We will ensure your will is legally valid, reflects your wishes, and offers security for your loved ones. Whether you’re writing a will for the first time or updating an existing one, we’re ready to provide expert support.
Contact us today to book your will writing consultation at our Sidmouth office.
