Creating a will is one of the most important steps you can take to protect your family and your property. A will is a formal legal document that sets out what should happen to your assets, savings, and possessions after your death. Without a valid will, the law decides who inherits, which can lead to stress and disputes at an already difficult time.
In Stockport, where many families own homes, run small businesses, or hold significant savings, a clear will is not only practical but essential. Marley Solicitors has helped many people across Stockport, from Brinnington to Heaton Moor, draft wills that stand up to legal scrutiny and reflect their exact wishes.
What is a will, and why is it important?
A will is a legal statement that explains how your estate should be handled when you pass away. Your estate includes your home, money in bank accounts, shares, personal belongings, and sometimes digital assets such as online accounts.
Without a will, the estate is divided under the laws of intestacy. This can mean:
- A partner you are not married to receives nothing
- Children inherit in unexpected proportions
- Disputes arise between surviving relatives
- Tax liabilities are higher than necessary
In Stockport, where property prices are steadily rising, having clarity over who inherits is more important than ever. A well‑written will can also appoint guardians for your children and specify funeral wishes, offering additional peace of mind.
Can you write your own will in Stockport?
Yes, you can technically write your own will, but many homemade wills fail because of unclear language or improper signing. A small mistake can make the entire document invalid.
For example, we have seen cases where a will was not properly witnessed, and the estate then defaulted to intestacy rules, causing heartbreak and additional costs. Solicitors in Stockport, such as Marley Solicitors, ensure every clause is legally sound and that the will is correctly executed.
Why should you consider a solicitor for your will?
Using a solicitor does more than protect against errors. It allows you to receive tailored advice that suits your situation:
- Complex estates: If you own more than one property or run a business, legal input is crucial.
- Blended families: If you have children from different relationships, special clauses can be added to protect everyone.
- Tax planning: A well‑structured will can minimise inheritance tax.
- Ongoing support: A solicitor can store your will safely and remind you when a review might be needed.
Steps to create a will with Marley Solicitors
We make the process simple, clear and stress‑free:
- Initial meeting: We discuss your assets, debts and any special wishes.
- Drafting: Our solicitors prepare a detailed will that reflects your instructions.
- Review: We go through the draft together, ensuring you are happy with every section.
- Execution: We arrange for correct witnessing and signing to make it valid.
- Safe storage: We store your will securely and can provide certified copies if needed.
- Future updates: If your circumstances change, we update your will promptly.
Common scenarios in Stockport
Stockport is home to families with a wide range of needs:
- Homeowners in Cheadle Heath looking to leave property to children
- Couples in Heaton Moor with second marriages who want to balance assets between families
- Retired residents in Bramhall who wish to leave charitable gifts to local causes
- Business owners in Stockport town centre planning succession for their company shares
We tailor each will to your exact circumstances.
What happens if you do not make a will?
If you pass away without a valid will, the law applies fixed rules. This might mean:
- Your spouse or civil partner inherits a set amount, with the rest divided among children
- Unmarried partners or stepchildren are left out entirely
- The process takes longer and may require court involvement
- Tax liabilities may be higher because no planning was done
Making a will avoids these issues and gives you full control.
Updating your will in Stockport
Your will should not remain static. Life events that should trigger a review include:
- Marriage or divorce
- Birth or adoption of a child
- Purchase or sale of property
- A change in financial circumstances
- Moving to another area or country
- Death of a named executor or beneficiary
Our solicitors in Stockport offer quick and efficient updates, so your will always reflects your current wishes.
The role of executors and guardians
In your will, you can name executors; these are trusted individuals who manage your estate, and guardians for your children if they are under 18. Choosing reliable people for these roles is crucial. We help you understand the responsibilities involved so you can make informed choices.
Storing your will
A will must be kept safe but accessible. Marley Solicitors provides secure storage facilities, protecting your document from loss or damage. We also register your will details so it can be easily located when needed.
Minimising inheritance tax
Many clients in Stockport are concerned about inheritance tax, especially as property values in areas like Bramhall and Heaton Moor have risen significantly. A professionally drafted will can:
- Use available allowances and reliefs
- Set up trusts to protect assets for children or vulnerable beneficiaries
- Reduce the taxable value of your estate through charitable gifts
These steps require expert guidance, which our team provides.
Frequently asked questions about wills in Stockport
Do I need to use a solicitor to make my will valid?
It is not mandatory, but using a solicitor significantly reduces the risk of errors. A poorly drafted will can be challenged in court, leading to delays and extra costs for your family.
How often should I review my will?
We recommend a review every three to five years or after any major life change. Regular reviews keep your will accurate and legally effective.
Can Marley Solicitors store my will?
Yes. We offer secure, fire‑proof storage and can provide copies or arrange access whenever required. This ensures your will is always available and protected.
Why choose Marley Solicitors for wills in Stockport?
- Local knowledge: We understand the property market, family structures, and common estate issues in Stockport.
- Personal service: Every client receives one‑to‑one attention and clear advice.
- Experience: We have drafted hundreds of wills, from simple documents to complex estate plans.
- Security: We offer safe storage and ongoing support throughout your lifetime.
Take control of your future today
Making a will is not only a legal step; it is a gift to your loved ones, ensuring they are protected and your wishes are honoured. Marley Solicitors in Stockport offers free initial consultations so you can explore your options without pressure.
If you live in Stockport and want to make, update, or store your will with confidence, speak to Marley Solicitors today. Our friendly team is ready to guide you through every stage of the process, giving you complete peace of mind.
Contact Marley Solicitors now for a free, no‑obligation consultation about your will and estate planning.
