Will: all to one person; if first beneficiary dies, then to alternative beneficiary; failing that, to charity
About this document
Most likely users of this will:
Person who wishes to leave all to one person but wishes to be sure what happens if that chosen beneficiary dies first.
Next, read relevant information articles as listed in the column to your right.
There are many reasons to make a will. If you are reading this page, we assume you are convinced that it is a good idea. In the old days, it was efficient to change your will by adding or editing some small point in a “codicil”. In these days of word processors that is not necessary. Just re-write your will, making the changes you want. Some people do it every year. But do, do keep the notes attached to your Net Lawman will and refresh your memory on the pointers we give you. In particular, make sure you sign and witness your will correctly.
A will is a very important document. Making a will is more than “filling a form”. We want to help you to make your will so that it works exactly as you wish. Please, please read some of the information pages listed in the right column before you choose which will to buy. Each article deals simply with some aspect of your will.
Do not fear the gobbledy gook you still see in many wills. Some organisations, and even a few solicitors, still justify their charges by giving you a document 30 pages long. Yes, the law relating to wills and intestacy is very complicated. Add in today’s tax law and you can end up with not merely a can, but a barrel, of worms. Net Lawman wills keep it simple for you. Where we have to use time honoured legal text, we do so. There is no alternative. We also have to be very precise when dealing with some aspect which could affect tax. But wherever we can use simple, modern language we do that too.
Some advisers on wills may try to persuade you to enter into one of the tax “schemes” you see advertised in the newspapers. Maybe they are paid commission when you join up. We can advise you in complete confidence (we do not generally give advice) that any “scheme” to save tax is risky in that:
It may not succeed under today’s law;
Even if good now, the law may be changed before you die or make another will;
It is probably very expensive
If it fails, the tax may be payable by some person who least expected the bill.
If you are worth more than a few million pounds, see a solicitor specialist and pay for a bespoke will. Yes, it will probably cost a lot of money too, but he/she may find savings in esoteric corners which we do not include.
We do also provide comprehensive drafting notes with each will template document, so as to help you still more.
However, to help you decide whether this is the best will for you, here are a few more pointers:
We have specified each will as “suitable for” some class of will maker. But our classes are not exclusive. Anyone can make a will from any of these templates.
Gay? Remember that “spouse” exemptions do not apply. Best to specify your partner name precisely.
Contents
Details of the testator;
Details of executors and trustees;
Specified gifts;
Provision for professional trustees or executors to charge a reasonable fee for their services;
Funeral wishes;
Signature for testator and witnesses in line with section 9 of the Wills Act 1837;
Extensive notes to guide you.
Word
Count (approximate):
Document: 400
words
Explanatory notes:
1000
words
Draftsman
This document is drawn and maintained by Net Lawman. It is real law in plain English.
