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When you start the process of writing your Will you are likely to come across some common legal words and phrases. The below glossary of terms can help you understand what they mean.

If you are having trouble writing your will or would like professional advice contact us here or call 0345 0178250. Our team of experienced will writers are on hand to assist you.

Administrators –  The people (usually family members) who will sort out your affairs and estate if you do not make a Will.
Sometimes also known as executors.

Beneficiary –  Any organisation or person you leave a gift or property to in your Will.

Bequest –  A gift of personal effects/assets when left by Will. Also another word for legacy donations in a Will.

Chattels – Personal property. Real chattels refer to buildings and fixtures. Personal chattels refer to clothes, furniture, etc.

Codicil – A legal document by which a person amends their Will.

Estate –  Everything you own at the time of death. This includes property, personal effects such as jewellery and furniture

Executor –  A person or persons appointed by you in your Will to carry out the wishes in your Will.
Often family members but can also be legal professionals or solicitors.

Guardians – Persons appointed in a will to look after children in the event of the death of the parents.

Inheritance Tax – A tax on the estate of the deceased person.

Intestate –  When a person dies without a valid will

Legacy – Money that has been left in a Will to family, friends or charitable organisations.

Pecuniary legacy –  A gift of a fixed amount of money.

Probate – The legal procedure that confirms your Will as valid and authorises your executors to deal with your estate.

Residue – What is left of your estate after all debts and expenses have been deducted and all bequests have been paid (except residuary legacies).

Residuary legacy – A gift consisting of the residue (see above) or part of the residue of an estate.

Specific legacy – A gift of a particular item e.g. jewellery.

Testator – A man who has died leaving a Will.

Testatrix – A woman who has died leaving a Will.

The Crown- The government of a country ruled by a monarch

Trustee –  A person who is responsible for any part of your estate left in trust.

Will –  A declaration by which a person provides for the distribution of their estate on death sometimes referred to as a testament.

In short- yes you do need a Will. In England and Wales if you die without a Will the law decides who gets what from your estate. If you have no living family members, everything you own, even your pet will go to the Crown.

When someone dies without a Will this is called dying intestate. If a person dies intestate, without leaving a valid Will, everything they own will be distributed according to specific rules. These are called the rules of intestacy.

These rules mean that only married or civil partners and close family members can inherit.

The intestacy rules also apply if a Will is made but proven to be invalid.

For advice about making a Will contact us or start your Will online, and we can guide you through the process.

Things to consider when writing a Will

• How much is your estate worth?
• Who would you like to inherit your things?
• How can you protect your partner or spouse?
• How can you protect your children in the event of your death?

What are the different types of Wills?

Single Will

A Single Will is for anyone over 18 years of age and of sound mind looking to record their final wishes, this can be for individuals who are single, divorced or in a relationship. It is particularly important for anyone with young children to make a Will to ensure Guardians are appointed to care for children should the parent die before the children reach adulthood.

Couple Wills

Couple Wills are Wills for two people whether married, civil partners or living together. Each Will normally, but not always, states that when one person dies, the estate will be left to the surviving person. Then when the remaining spouse dies the property will be distributed in accordance with the couple’s wishes.

Trust Wills

A Trust in your Will can be used to leave your estate or a proportion of it to a Trust created from your Will. Trusts can be written to protect the inheritance of beneficiaries or those unable to manage their inheritance. The Trust will be managed by Trustee who will be appointed by you in your Will. Trusts can be written for single people or couples.

How much does making a will cost?

Legal & Contract Services Ltd can arrange a professionally written Last Will and Testament from just £120

A Will is one of the most important legal documents you will ever sign. For advice on making a Will contact us on 0345 0178250 or via our online form.