Who will look after my children if I die?

A Will is where parents formally record their wishes about guardianship. If both parents die, this helps guide decisions and avoids unnecessary uncertainty at an already difficult time. You can name more than one Guardian, including a primary Guardian and a substitute Guardian if the first is unable or unwilling to act. Planning this in advance means you, not the courts, are setting out what you believe is best for your children.

How does a Will protect unmarried partners, step-children and chosen family?

A common misconception is that a “common law” partner will automatically inherit if the other partner dies. In England and Wales, common law marriage does not exist. Without a Will, an unmarried partner can be treated very differently to a spouse, regardless of how long you have shared a life, a home, or a Netflix account. Step-children and chosen family are also not automatically recognised if there is no Will in place. The law that governs Wills dates back to 1837 and was not designed with modern families in mind. Writing a Will is how you move away from outdated defaults and make clear decisions that reflect your real life and relationships.

Who inherits what under my Will?

A Will is about more than who inherits. It is also about who does not. From treasured heirlooms to your first property, your Will lets you be clear about what goes where, and why. That clarity helps prevent misunderstandings, protect relationships, and stop outdated default rules from stepping in where they do not belong.

Can I include funeral wishes in my Will?

Including funeral preferences in your Will can take pressure off the people you leave behind. It means fewer debates, less second-guessing, and no one having to say, “I think this is what they would have wanted.” While funeral wishes are not legally binding, recording them clearly gives guidance at a difficult moment and helps those closest to you make decisions with confidence.

How can a Will help plan for life’s curveballs?

Protecting assets is not about mistrust. It is about planning ahead. A Will can help future-proof inheritances from life’s curveballs, whether that is divorce, financial instability, or a few questionable choices along the way. Setting clear terms gives you more control over how and when assets are passed on.

Do I need a Will if I don’t have much money?

Wills are not about being wealthy. They are about making clear decisions, especially if you have children, a partner, or shared responsibilities. For many parents, guardianship alone is reason enough to write a Will. It is also a gift to leave behind clarity instead of stress at an already difficult time.

What happens if I die without a Will?

Even close families can end up stressed and uncertain when there is no Will. Probate is a marathon, not a sprint, and without a Will there is no automatic right to step in or make decisions. A Will removes guesswork, reduces the risk of disagreement, and helps things move forward more smoothly. It is a kindness, not a drama.

Can I wait to write a Will?

Life rarely gives advance warning. Accidents happen, and “later” is not guaranteed. The moment you have something you love is the moment you need to protect it. Writing a Will now means you can make clear decisions while things are calm, and update it as life changes.

Is writing a Will morbid?

Writing a Will is not about dwelling on death. It is about protecting the people, places, and things you love. We approach it as a thoughtful, life-affirming process, always sensitive to the emotional weight involved. For most people, the relief when it is done is real, giving them the freedom to get back to the things they enjoy in life.

Barnet Will Writing Talk

How to protect your property for future generations

Book your free place now

Thursday 22nd October

Chipping Barnet Library (behind the Spires)

Three sessions: 10am · 1.30pm · 6.30pm

Refreshments provided. Nothing sold on the day.

Prefer to talk? Call 0203 355 4538

Nellie McQuinn, your speaker on the day

“I had a great experience with AWAY Wills, the process was super easy and efficient, Nellie was fantastic, really helpful and professional throughout. Highly recommend!”

— Morgan, AWAY Wills customer