Wills and Probate
Why do I need a Will?
We believe that a Will is one of the most important documents that a person will draw up in their life.
A Will is a legal document which directs how your estate is distributed
after your death. Making a Will is the only way to ensure that your
family and friends are provided for to your specific requirements and
to ensure your wishes are carried out.
When you prepare your Will you appoint executors to carry out your
wishes. You can nominate friends, members of your family or your
solicitor.
A Will is particularly important if you have children. You may want to
appoint guardians for children under 18 and establish Trust Funds to
look after their interests.

What happens if I don't make a Will?
Surprisingly, only three people out of ten prepare a Will before their death. If you die without making a Will the Law decides how your estate will be divided and who will deal with it. This process can be costly and sometimes traumatic for your family to sort out.
But I have nothing to leave!
You are
probably worth more than you think. A house, car, life assurance, all
have to be distributed after your death. We will help you to calculate
the worth of your assets and make sure nothing has been left out.
There may also be items of sentimental value that you would like to
bequeath. We can explain the different ways to leave gifts and examine
any tax implications which may arise.
How much will it cost?
We can tell you how long it will take and how much it will cost from the outset. The cost of not making a Will could be a great deal more.
Updating your Will
You should review your Will with us at least every three years, or when there are major changes in your life such as moving house, marriage, divorce or children. We will safely store your original Will and provide you with a copy so that you can refer to it whenever you wish to do so.
Individual needs
We will tailor our services to meet your individual needs. If you are house bound or hospitalised, we can visit you at your home or in hospital.
Related services
As solicitors working within the community and committed to providing the best possible advice and assistance to all our clients, we are frequently asked by our elderly clients and their families to advise upon such issues as:
- Will I lose my home and savings if I go into a nursing home?
- My partner lives with me - will our house have to be sold to pay my nursing home fees?
- Can I give away my property and money before I go into a residential home?
- My children paid for my council house - will they get it if I go into a residential home?
- My mother's health is gradually deteriorating - how can I help her look after her affairs?
- What is an Lasting Power of Attorney?
- Can I fund the payment of future nursing home fees?
Solutions
Pearson Caulfield have the expertise to advise you on all legal issues relating to the needs of the elderly. Our friendly and approachable staff will deal with your enquiries in a caring and sympathetic manner. We will provide wide-ranging advice on:
- Community care issues
- Finance and benefit problems
- Lasting Powers of Attorney
- Court of Protection receiverships
- Advance directives (living Wills)
- Administration of estates