A last Will and Testament more often referred to as a Will. It is the legally binding document that an individual drafts to make sure that their final wishes are carried out according to their wishes. If this important step is not taken then the estate is subject to the rules of intestacy.

Not having a Will prepared can cause unwanted stress at a time when it is least welcome but it is surprising how many people ignore this important step in securing the future of their loved ones until it is too late.

In fact, getting a Will together is not a major undertaking when you have a professional Will writing firm on your side. The following action points listed below will help you to do some basic research so that when you hire a Will writer you have all the information you need on hand.

1. When preparing a last Will and Testament, you will need the following information to hand:

2. Personal details such as name, address, date of birth and place of birth

3. Personal details of your spouse or partner if you wish to prepare Mirror Wills

4. Details of any previous marriages

5. Details of any children or dependents

6. The Full names and addresses of your selected executors and trustees. It is a wise idea to provide some information regarding stand in executors in the event that your selected executors are not able or not willing to act. At least 2 back up executors are recommended if money is to be held on behalf of children under the age of eighteen

7. Full names and addresses of guardians for your children if they are under the age of eighteen

8. Whether you would like to leave any gifts of money or property (such as jewellery or other personal items) and if so, the full names and addresses of the beneficiaries

9. Who you would like to receive the remainder of your estate

10. Whom you would like to receive your residuary estate in the event that your chosen beneficiaries have predeceased you. For example, it is common for spouses to leave their estates to each other in the first instance, with a provision on to children in the event that both spouses have passed away. Some people also like to include back up beneficiaries in the event that the whole family dies simultaneously (often referred to as a disaster scenario)

11. At what age you would like minors to inherit. The legal minimum age is 18 however, this can be increased to say 21 or 25

12. Whether you would like to include any funeral instructions such as burial or cremation.

If you can get these details together before you approach a Will writing service you will save yourself time and money.

A Will can also be used to create trusts and life interests depending on your requirements. It is advisable to seek professional legal advice before preparing a Will.