Wills

Although a will is one of the most important documents that you will sign, the majority of the UK adult population do not have a valid will in place.

If you do not make a will, your estate will be distributed according to intestacy rules on your death. Only certain close relatives can inherit in these circumstances. Making a will ensures that your assets will be distributed according to your wishes.

A will is a legal document and must meet certain conditions in order to be legally valid. While there are numerous will writing services available, it is important to note that a will created without the guidance of a will solicitor may open itself up to challenges of validity. Our expert wills and probate team can ensure your will is legally sound and reflects your wishes.

Our team has extensive experience advising high net worth individuals on the preparation of wills, ensuring that complex family and financial arrangements are handled with the utmost discretion. Based in Newcastle, Mincoffs can support clients across the North East and elsewhere in the UK.

As well as making sure loved ones are provided for, a will can:

• Appoint legal guardians for minor children
• Leave gifts to charities
• Pass personal belongings to friends or family
• Include trusts to protect vulnerable beneficiaries, safeguard means-tested benefits, protect assets against care home fee assessments and control who ultimately benefits from an asset
• Provide opportunities for tax planning
• Pass family businesses on to future generations, supported by our corporate team

It is important to remember that if you have a will in place already, you should review it periodically to ensure it is still appropriate for your circumstances.  We would recommend having your will reviewed approximately every five years, or after a significant life event such as a birth or marriage.

At Mincoffs, our wills and trusts solicitors will provide you with a quotation once we have met with you and discussed your personal circumstances.

As members of the Society of Trust and Estate Practitioners (STEP), we adhere to the STEP Will Writing Code for England and Wales.

For friendly, sensitive advice regarding any aspect of making a will, speak to one of our will writing solicitors today on 0191 281 6151 or email probate@mincoffs.co.uk.