Again, without a valid Will in place, the estate will pass under the Intestacy Rules and can mean that your partner is not entitled to any part of your estate as cohabiting partners do not have the same rights as married couples in this manner.
Summary of Problems arising from Intestacy’s
- Unmarried partners – If you were cohabiting when you died, and you died without leaving a Will, your partner may be left with no provision from your estate.
- Lack of Control – You will have no control over your estate which will be administered according to a scheme laid down by law.
- Administrators – You have no control over who will be your appointed administrators of your Will.
- Guardianship – You have not had a chance to appoint legal guardians for your children.
- Complex and Cost Implications – Your estate will be more complex as beneficiaries may need to be traced and therefore this means unnecessary legal fees may be incurred.
- Step-Children – If you have step-children, they will not be covered under the Intestacy Rules and will therefore not automatically inherit from your estate.
- Disputes – It may be that you were estranged from certain family members, who may now be entitled to your estate under the Intestacy Rules. This may lead to disputes between the surviving family members, who will feel aggrieved at the situation.
If you want to make provisions for your loved ones then give us a call on 0800 294 4892 or fill out our online contact form. Our Wills and Probate department are always on hand to help.
