Assumptions 'should not be made about absence of wills'

People should ensure they draw up wills otherwise their estates may end up going to parties they would not wish, it has been pointed out.

According to a report in the Daily Mail, it is a "common misconception" that when consumers fail to create such legal documents, their money will automatically go to their spouse.

Commenting on the issue, it said: "In fact, the state decides, through intestacy rules, what will happen."

The publication went on to say that in England and Wales, if people have children, their spouse or civil partner can receive a maximum of £250,000. This figure includes personal belonging and properties.

Meanwhile, where there are no children, the spouse or civil partner can inherit up to £450,000.

Recently, the Law Commission announced proposals to provide new inheritance rights for couples who are not married but who have cohabited for five years or more or who have children together.
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12/11/2009 14:21

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