Legal advice from Ian Sydenham, Private Client Partner based at FDR Law’s office in Warrington
Q: How often should I update my Will?
A: It is recommended that you review your Will at least every five years or whenever you have had a major life change, for example:
- Getting separated or divorced
- Getting married or entering into a civil partnership (this cancels any Will you have had made previously)
- Having a Child
- Moving House
- If an Executor or Beneficiary named in the Will dies
- If you no longer own something you have left to someone
It is not possible to amend your Will itself after it has been signed and witnessed, but you can change your Will’s terms by making another document called a Codicil. A Codicil must be signed and witnessed in the same way that you would a Will.
Although there are no limits to how many Codicils you can add to a Will. We would recommend though that for major changes you write a new Will. This new Will should give details that is officially cancels all previous Wills and Codicils. Old Wills should be securely destroyed e.g. by shredding.
A solicitor will be able to advise you on the best route to ensure that your Will is valid and legal and that your wishes are clearly laid out.
For further information on Wills, Trusts and Probate contact Ian Sydenham on ian.sydenham@fdrlaw.co.uk on 01925 230000