Wills and Will Writing
Making a Will gives you control over how your estate is handled when you die, helping to protect the people and causes you care about most. At Martin Shepherd, we make the writing of your Will as straightforward as possible, offering clear and comprehensive guidance for clients across North London and Hertfordshire from our offices in Potters Bar, Hertford and North Finchley.
How We Can Help
We know every family is different, and so is every Will. Whether you’re planning ahead, coping after a loved one has passed away without a Will, or facing a disagreement over an estate, we’re here to guide you with understanding and expertise.
Our aim is to give you peace of mind that everything is in place for the future, with advice that’s practical, clear, and personal to you.
Understanding Wills and Will Writing
A Will is more than a legal formality — it’s your opportunity to decide how your estate is shared, who will look after your children, and how special possessions are passed on. Without one, the law decides for you, and the outcome might not be what you would have wanted.
Writing Your Will
We work with you to create a Will that sets out your wishes clearly and legally. This can include naming executors, appointing guardians for children, deciding on gifts to loved ones or charities, and recording funeral preferences. By taking the time to understand your priorities, we ensure your Will reflects what matters most to you and avoids confusion for your family.
If There Is No Will (Intestacy)
When someone dies without a Will, their estate is shared under strict intestacy rules that may not reflect their wishes. Unmarried partners have no automatic right to inherit, and disputes between relatives can arise. We can explain how the rules apply in your situation, protect your interests, and guide you through securing your entitlement, giving you the reassurance that the process is being handled with care.
Challenging a Will
If you believe a Will is invalid or fails to make reasonable provision for you, we can help. Common reasons include undue influence, lack of capacity, or concerns about how executors are carrying out their duties. We handle these matters sensitively, offering practical advice and strong representation to protect your rights while working towards the best possible outcome for you and your family.
Keeping Your Will Up to Date
Life changes can affect your Will, from marriage and divorce to moving home or the arrival of children or grandchildren. We recommend reviewing your Will every five years or after any major change to ensure it still reflects your circumstances. By keeping it current, you can be confident that your wishes will be respected and your loved ones properly provided for when the time comes.
Emotional and Practical Support
We know that making or discussing a Will can feel deeply personal, and sometimes overwhelming. For some, it’s about planning ahead with care; for others, it follows a difficult loss or family dispute. Whatever your situation, we provide a calm, understanding space where you can talk through your concerns and feel listened to.
Alongside our legal expertise, we focus on giving you clear, straightforward advice so you can make decisions confidently. We balance compassion with practical guidance, helping you take each step at a pace that feels right for you. Our aim is to ease the pressure and give you the reassurance that your affairs – or those of a loved one – are being handled with care.
Above all, we are here to put your needs first.
Local, Trusted Solicitors
At Martin Shepherd Solicitors, we’ve been helping individuals and families across North London and Hertfordshire plan for the future and deal with sensitive inheritance matters for many years. We understand the importance of trust when choosing a solicitor, especially for something as personal as your Will.
With offices in Potters Bar, Hertford and North Finchley, we combine local knowledge with the reassurance of legal expertise. Our team is approachable, professional, and committed to providing a service that feels personal to you, giving you confidence that your wishes – and those of your loved ones – are in safe hands.
Let’s Make a Start
Whether you are making your first Will, need advice after a loved one has passed without one, or are dealing with a Will dispute, we are here to help. We will listen to your situation, explain your options clearly, and guide you through the next steps.
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