Nobody wants to see a close friend suffer in any way, and however helpless you may feel; there are some ways you can lend support. If your friend hasn’t made a will, then now is the time to write one. Even if their illness is not terminal, if he or she owns a house, business, has children etc, then a will is a crucial document that will ensure everybody is sorted if something happens to him or her.
Below are some tips on how to write a will.
Start with a Pen and Paper
However tempting is it to record a video will, this will not be considered legal, so always start with a pen and paper (or a typed document will suffice).
Important Information to include
Information you will want to include is; the people who are going to benefit from the will, what will be bequeathed to them and if you have children under the age of 18, who you would like to care for them. Also, who you would like to distribute the estate – up to four people can be named as executors (although you are best advised to pick two people, to avoid disputes).
It might also be worth weighing up any debts that exist, as your estate will be used to clear these. If there are any outstanding debts to be paid, and you can afford to do so, now is the best time to take care of them.
Next Steps
Once the will has been written, it is best to have a solicitor look over it, as there are processes and procedures that need to be completed properly for the document to be legal. Two witnesses have to read and sign the document, but you should note that they must not be people who are included in the will.
A will is not foolproof, it can be contested; however, a solicitor can assist you in these matters. It is also worth checking out http://www.disputingwills.co.uk, where you can read up on common problems with wills. In helping your friend complete a will, you are doing them a service. This isn’t an easy time for anybody, and helping them out will save them some time and stress.