A will is not a document to write once and forget. Relationships, property ownership, children, business interests and the people you rely on can change significantly over time.
Review major life changes
Marriage, divorce, children, bereavement, buying property or a significant change in assets are sensible review points.
Think about who administers the estate
Executors have practical responsibilities. Choose people who are appropriate for the role and consider substitutes.
Consider assets that do not pass under the will
Some jointly owned assets, pensions, policies or trust assets may pass outside the will. Estate planning should look at the whole picture.
Keep the document accessible and the instructions clear
A carefully drafted will is only useful if the original can be found and the people responsible know what to do when the time comes.
When to get advice
This article is general information, not legal advice on a specific matter. If your circumstances are time-sensitive, disputed or financially significant, take advice on the facts rather than relying on general guidance.