Help for Carers > Legal matters > Will / Executor

Will / Executor

The best way of making sure your possessions, money and responsibilities are dealt with as you would wish after your death is to make a record of your wishes, called a Will. If you die without a Will (known as 'intestate') your money, possessions and even wishes for the continuing care of the person you look after may be ignored. Your affairs will then be dealt with according to the rules of inheritance (generally next of kin). A Will can ensure that property, land and valuables are passed on to people whom you would like to receive them; make clear who has custody of children, and if there is no partner, appoint guardians; and provide instructions about funeral arrangements.

For your Will to be valid it has to be in writing using permanent ink or typed, made by you when you are 18 years or over, whilst in 'sound mind', made voluntarily and without pressure, to be signed by you in the presence of two witnesses, neither of whom should be beneficiaries of your Will. You should name a person, persons or organisation (such as a firm of solicitors or a bank) to take charge of carrying out your wishes after your death. These people are known as the Executors.

You can get more information from:

West Sussex Carers Support Services (formerly West Sussex Carers Network)

www.ageconcern.org.uk whose information section contains several useful factsheets and information sheets about making a will, putting your affairs in order and instructions for executors and next of kin.

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