When should a Will Writer be consulted?

You can call a Will Writer at any time for advice about making or changing a will. But it is sensible to wait until you have moved into your new house as you cannot bequeath property that you don't legally own.

Can I afford an approved Will Writer?

A recent survey showed that 8 out of 10 adults believe that we should be protected from untrained and unregulated Will Writers. (source: ICM Research, December 2005.) This suggests that people have had bad experiences with dodgy Solicitors and Will Writers. The best way to avoid disappointment and hassle is to check that your Will Writer has been accredited by The Institute of Professional Will Writers. All IPW Will Writers:

• are qualified by examination to write Wills and associated documents
• have £2million Professional Indemnity Insurance cover to protect their clients
• have undergone a criminal records check
• undertake regular refresher training to update their knowledge
• are subject to the IPW disciplinary Code of Conduct

(source: www.ipw.org.uk)

Don't be tempted by a cheap Will Writer who may not fully understand complicated laws, rules and regulations. The cost for drawing up a will with an accredited Will Writers can vary depending on their experience and how complicated your will may be. Generally the cost can vary between £40 and £140 but it is best to have a ring round to see what prices local solicitors and Will Writers are offering.

Can I make my will on the internet?

There are lots of websites offering to draw up your will very cheaply or even for free. However, the IPW advises strongly against this. An internet questionnaire cannot give you the same amount of advice that a Will Writer or Solicitor can. They can't answer your questions about the will, nor can they be tailored to your individual needs. It may seem quick and easy at the time, but there is no point cutting corners. Everything you worked hard for is covered by your will and you need to know that when you die it will go to the right people. But I don't understand all the legal terms!

Making a will can be made complicated by all the legal jargon. A Will Writer will be able to explain what they all mean – but here are a few to get you started:

• Codicil - An extra signed and executed note which amends or adds something to a will.
• Deed - A legal document which sets out the terms of an agreement, which is signed by both parties.
• Devi - A Person to whom freehold land is given by a will.
• Estate - The rights and assets of a person in property.
• Executor - A person or persons specified to carry out the provisions of a will.
• Guardian - A person appointed to safeguard/protect/manage the interests of a child.
• Intestate - Dying without leaving a will.
• Probate - The legal recognition of the validity of a will.
• Trust - Property legally entrusted to a person with instructions to use it for another person.
• Will - A declaration of a person's intentions to distribute his/her estate and assets.