Will update – as life changes, your will should too

Intro

A will is a document that needs to be updated as life changes – it’s not a document that should be done once and forgotten.
We worked with some elderly clients seeking to update their wills following a change in personal circumstances.
Read on to find out the importance of keeping wills updated, especially when health or family situations shift and how Bridger’s Law is able to assist our clients facing health challenges by offering home visits.

The enquiry…
Bridger’s Law was contacted by the clients’ son after his parents said they would like to update their wills. A recent stroke experienced by his mother, meant a visit to the office wasn’t possible, so we arranged a home visit. They also felt much more comfortable discussing personal matters in their own home.

Our approach

We were tasked with preparing new wills. Having had sight of two previous wills created by other solicitors, we reviewed these, confirming which instructions needed to be changed. We discussed the difference between needing a codicil, which is a legal document used to make changes to an existing will, and a new will. As the changes were substantial, the clients decided upon receiving the advice to progress with new wills that would replace their previous wills created in 2021.

Challenges

When we reviewed their old wills, it was clear these were no longer sufficient and did not meet with their wishes – their financial position had changed substantially in the four years since they wrote them.
Keeping in mind the client’s recent stroke, we were careful to ensure that we took the time to explain each of the questions and any implications these would have so the legal side could be understood. We were able to reassure the client that her wishes would be effectively carried out with the new will and confirm the procedure for doing so. Her health meant there were added considerations of the impact of leaving gifts to her husband, should he survive her.

Having listened carefully to the client’s thoughts, feelings and wishes, we were able to draft a will that met with their updated instructions. These wishes were also structured within the will in a way that future-proofed it to deal with any eventualities should one of the beneficiaries pass away.

For more information and FAQ have a look at ‘What we do‘ on our website. We also have a blog on ‘What happens if you die without a will‘ to understand the importance of having a valid, up-to-date will in place.