60% of UK adults have no will. Most think: "My family will automatically get everything." They won't. Without a will, rigid GOVERNMENT RULES (intestacy) decide.
With a Will
- ✓ You decide who inherits
- ✓ You choose executors you trust
- ✓ You name guardians for kids
- ✓ You protect unmarried partners
- ✓ Probate: 3-6 months, ~£3K costs
Without a Will
- ❌ Government decides who inherits
- ❌ Courts appoint administrators
- ❌ Courts decide who raises your kids
- ❌ Unmarried partners get NOTHING
- ❌ Probate: 12-18 months, £12K-£15K costs
Who Gets What Under Intestacy? (England & Wales)
Spouse gets: Personal stuff + first £322K + 50% of the rest.
Kids get: Other 50% (held until age 18).
Spouse gets: everything if there are no surviving descendants (England & Wales, since October 2014).
Parents/Siblings get: nothing while a spouse or civil partner survives.
Partner gets: NOTHING
Everything goes to: Your kids → Parents → Siblings → Government.
Real Consequences
❌ Wrong people inherit
Sarah & Tom lived together 15 years. Never married. Tom died suddenly. Tom's estranged brother inherited everything. Sarah got nothing and had to move out of their home.
❌ Family fights
James died. No will. £500K estate. Wife thought she'd inherit all. Intestacy rules gave kids £89K. Kids wanted more. 18-month legal battle costing £15K.