Making a Will using your solicitor

Remember the Vegan Society in your will and help to fund our vital work promoting veganism worldwide.

1 Choose your Executors
Executors are people who carry out the instructions in your will. Always ask first before making somebody an executor of your Will.

2 Choose a Guardian(s) for your children
If you have children under the age of 18 you need to choose who you would like to act as their guardian. Always ask them first.

3 Choose your legal advisor
If you are going to use a solicitor, and don't already have one, contact several solicitors and ask how much they charge.

4 Prepare questions
List any questions you want to ask your solicitor.

5 Prepare a list of possessions
Write down everything you own.

6 Write down your Will
In your own words write what you want to say in your Will.

7 Meet your legal advisor
Now you are ready to meet your legal adviser. Take with you everything you have prepared including any questions you may have.

8 Sign your Will
Once your Will is written, you can sign it, witnessed by two independent people. A solicitor will usually supply witnesses.

9 Keep it safe
Store your Will somewhere safe and make sure your executors have copies. Solicitors will usually keep the original free of charge and give you a copy for your records, Banks will retain Wills, but usually make a charge.

10 Keep it up-to-date
Circumstances change, so make sure you review your Will every few years and make any necessary alterations. Use a Codicil for small amendments, but for major changes it is often better to re-draft your Will through a solicitor.