Couple Discovered Their "Free Wills" Didn't Protect Each Other

A married couple approached Soteria Estate Planning to review Wills they had put in place more than ten years earlier through an employee benefits scheme.

Having been told at the time that their Wills were completed and in place, they felt reassured that they had dealt with an important piece of planning and expected the documents to provide protection for one another and their family.

Before our meeting, we asked the couple to send copies of their Wills so we could review them in advance.

Upon examining the documents, we quickly discovered a significant issue.

Despite being married, neither Will left anything to the surviving spouse.

Instead, each person's assets were directed to their respective siblings. The only provision relating to the couple was the appointment of the surviving spouse as guardian for their children should the worst happen.

Like many people, the couple had assumed their Wills reflected what they wanted to achieve and had never revisited the documents after signing them. They were understandably shocked to learn that if one of them had died, the surviving spouse may not have inherited assets in the way they expected.

We took the time to explain the implications of the existing arrangements and discuss what they actually wanted their Wills to achieve. Through a detailed consultation, we gained an understanding of their family circumstances, assets, and long-term wishes.

We then prepared new Wills tailored to their objectives, ensuring the surviving spouse was properly protected whilst also providing clear instructions for the eventual distribution of their estate to their chosen beneficiaries.

By reviewing and updating their Wills, the couple gained peace of mind knowing their documents now reflected their true intentions and provided appropriate protection for their family.

This planning story highlights an important lesson: having a Will is only part of the solution. A Will should be carefully drafted to reflect your circumstances, wishes, and objectives. Documents prepared many years ago or through generic schemes may not always provide the protection people assume they do.

Have questions about your existing Will or wonder whether it still reflects your wishes? Contact the team at Soteria Estate Planning. Call us on 01344 531 521 or arrange a meeting with one of our advisers today.