Many people now accept that it is sensible to make a will to ensure their financial affairs are in order in the event of their death. The need to do so is even more pressing if you are parents of young children, as it allows you to appoint legal guardians.
Nobody likes to think about the possibility of both parents not being there to bring up the children, but what if the unthinkable were to happen - who would you wish to step in and be responsible for their day-to-day care?
Without a will there are no specific rules as to who cares for your children. It is usually up to surviving family members to decide who takes on this difficult role. But what happens if, for some reason, those people are not suitable?
By the time of your death, your parents maybe getting on in years and feel unable to take on two or three lively youngsters. Any other close relatives you have may live miles away, meaning the children would have to be up-rooted at an already distressing time. In any event the choice of those you would wish to look after your children, like any important decision regarding their welfare, really should be made by you.
Appointing a guardian is easy, but it must be done correctly, so your solicitor is the best person to help. They will make a note of your wishes by including a special clause in your will.
You can, if you wish, include substitutes in case your first choice of guardians are unable to act. Of course, by making a properly drawn-up will you can also ensure that your money is available to meet your children's financial needs as they grow up, particularly in terms of education.
Your children are your most precious asset. With a little thought now you can make sure you will always be caring for them - even if you can't be there to do it in person.
Draw up a will now.
