Have you ever wondered how to make your Will truly reflect your personal wishes? A letter of wishes might be just what you’re looking for. At A.D.E Wills, we’re here to help you create a comprehensive estate plan that goes beyond the legal necessities.
What is a Letter of Wishes?
A letter of wishes is a confidential document that accompanies your Will. Unlike your Will, which becomes a public document after probate, your letter of wishes remains private, known only to your executors, trustees, or family members. It’s your chance to provide detailed guidance on matters close to your heart.
Why Consider a Letter of Wishes?
While not legally binding, a letter of wishes can be invaluable in several ways:
1. It allows you to explain the reasoning behind decisions in your Will.
2. You can provide specific instructions for the care of children or pets.
3. It’s an opportunity to detail how you’d like family heirlooms distributed.
4. You can express preferences for your funeral arrangements.
5. It helps executors understand your intentions when they have discretionary powers.
The Legal Status of a Letter of Wishes
It’s important to understand that a letter of wishes is not legally binding. Unlike your Will, which is a formal legal document, your letter of wishes doesn’t hold the same legal weight. However, this doesn’t diminish its importance or usefulness.
While not enforceable by law, a letter of wishes carries significant moral authority. Here’s why it’s still a valuable part of your estate planning:
1. Guidance for Executors: It provides clear direction to your executors, helping them understand your intentions and make decisions aligned with your values.
2. Flexibility: Because it’s not legally binding, a letter of wishes can be easily updated without the formalities required for changing a Will.
3. Explaining Decisions: It allows you to provide context for decisions made in your Will, potentially reducing misunderstandings or conflicts among beneficiaries.
4. Addressing Changing Circumstances: You can use it to give advice on handling situations that may change over time, such as the care of minor children as they grow older.
5. Personal Touch: It’s an opportunity to express sentiments and values that don’t fit within the formal structure of a Will.
While courts and executors are not obligated to follow a letter of wishes, they may give it serious consideration. In many cases, executors will do their best to honor these wishes as long as they don’t conflict with the legal requirements of the Will or create unfairness.
By combining a legally binding Will with a flexible, personal letter of wishes, you create a comprehensive estate plan that not only distributes your assets but also communicates your values and intentions to those you leave behind.
How We Help You Create Your Letter of Wishes
At A.D.E Wills, we’ve streamlined the process of creating your letter of wishes:
1. Initial Consultation: When you reach out to us for Will writing services, we’ll discuss the option of including a letter of wishes, only if it is genuinely necessary based on your wishes or intentions.
2. Professional Guidance: You’ll speak directly with one of our professional Will writers and estate planners. They’ll help you understand what to include and how to express your wishes effectively.
3. Drafting: Based on your discussion, we’ll draft your letter of wishes, ensuring it complements your Will without contradicting any legal provisions.
4. Review and Finalisation: You’ll have the opportunity to review and refine the letter until you’re completely satisfied.
Peace of Mind for Just £75
For an additional £75, you can have the reassurance that your personal wishes will be clearly communicated to those managing your estate. It’s a small price for the comfort of knowing your legacy will be handled exactly as you intend.
Ready to Get Started?
Creating your letter of wishes is a thoughtful process, and we’re here to guide you every step of the way. Whether you’re just starting to think about your estate plan or you’re ready to add a letter of wishes to your existing Will, we’re here to help.
Give us a call on 01865 507174 or email us at info@adewills.co.uk. Our team of experienced Will writers and estate planners are ready to help you create a comprehensive estate plan that truly reflects your wishes.
Remember, your Will takes care of the legalities, but your letter of wishes tells your story. Let’s work together to ensure your legacy is preserved exactly as you envision it.
