Wills & Probate
In Britain, anyone who dies without making a valid will is known as dying intestate.
Without a valid will, obtaining Letters of Administration and appointing an Administrator can
take a very long time. In the meantime, your surviving partner will have all the usual household expenses to find. Assets may be frozen, and your partner may not have access to money they are entitled to.
It is also extremely important to be aware that the partner of someone who dies intestate does not automatically inherit the whole of the estate if the estate is of substantial value. The Law decides what your partner can automatically receive, and this is known as the Statutory Legacy. The amount depends on whether there are surviving children or certain other relatives.
So that your exact wishes are clear after your death, it is advisable to make a Last Will and Testament. Follow the link below to find useful information regarding Wills and Probate which may help you decide what to do.
Citizens Advice Bureau
Help the Aged
Cancer Research