Wills and Estate Planning

Wills and Estate Planning

At Franklins Solicitors, our experienced Wills and Probate team is here to help you plan for the future with confidence. We offer clear, practical advice tailored to your individual circumstances, ensuring no detail is overlooked and your Will is legally robust, tax-efficient, and aligned with your values.

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What Is a Will?

A Will is a legally binding written statement of your wishes that comes into effect when you die. It sets out how you want your estate to be distributed, including money, property, personal possessions, and any specific gifts or donations.

A professionally drafted Will allows you to make important decisions now that could have a lasting impact on your family, friends, and chosen beneficiaries. It can also help reduce the burden of inheritance tax and make the process of administering your estate smoother for those you leave behind.

What Can a Will Include?

A properly drafted Will can do far more than simply list who inherits your assets. It can:

Specify your funeral wishes
Appoint executors to administer your estate
Nominate guardians for children under 18
Make provisions for disabled or vulnerable family members
Reduce potential inheritance tax liabilities
Avoid uncertainty and help prevent future disputes among loved ones

Additional Support and Services

If you are concerned about the potential loss of mental capacity in later life, we can also advise you on making a Lasting Power of Attorney or explore matters relating to the Court of Protection. These steps can help ensure that your affairs are managed according to your wishes, even if you’re no longer able to make decisions for yourself.

We also support families who are managing a loved one’s estate after death. Our experienced Probate team can offer practical guidance and full estate administration services during what is often a very difficult time.

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Why Choose Franklins for
Wills and Estate Planning?

Creating or updating your Will doesn’t need to be complicated. With Franklins, you’ll have the support of experienced, qualified solicitors who provide practical advice with care and clarity. We will ensure your questions are answered, your wishes are accurately recorded, and that your estate is planned with future generations in mind.

You can amend your Will at any time, and we recommend reviewing it regularly — particularly after major life events such as marriage, divorce, the birth of a child, or the acquisition of new assets.

Wills, Trusts & Estate Planning

FAQs

What’s the difference between a Will and a Trust?2025-08-21T16:30:30+01:00

A Will sets out your wishes after death. A Trust can take effect during your lifetime or after death (if written into your Will) and allows assets to be managed by trustees for specific beneficiaries.

Why use a Trust in my estate planning?2025-08-21T16:30:52+01:00

Trusts give you control over how and when assets are used — for example, to support children, vulnerable beneficiaries, or manage funds for education or housing. They can also offer asset protection and tax benefits.

What’s a Trust in a Will?2025-08-21T16:31:10+01:00

This is a Trust that only takes effect when you pass away. Common examples include Discretionary Trusts, Life Interest Trusts, and Right to Occupy Trusts — all designed to manage assets and support beneficiaries in different ways.

Do I need a Will if I’m not using a Trust?2025-08-21T16:31:27+01:00

Yes. A Will is essential for everyone. It ensures your estate is distributed according to your wishes and avoids confusion, delays, or legal disputes for your loved ones.

Can I exclude someone from my Will?2025-08-21T16:29:16+01:00

Yes, but it must be done carefully. You can choose who benefits from your estate, but if you exclude close family (like a spouse or children), they may still have a right to make a claim. It’s wise to seek legal advice in these cases.

How often should I update my Will?2025-08-21T16:28:44+01:00

You should review your Will every few years, or after major life events such as marriage, divorce, the birth of children, or acquiring significant assets. Keeping it up to date ensures it still reflects your wishes.

What shouldn’t I include in a Will?2025-08-21T16:32:18+01:00

Avoid emotional or defamatory statements, illegal conditions, or complex instructions that are hard to enforce. A Will should be clear, practical, and legally sound.

Should I make a Will if I don’t have much?2025-08-21T16:31:48+01:00

Yes. Even simple estates benefit from a Will. It ensures your belongings go to the right people and lets you appoint guardians for children or express funeral wishes.

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