Writing a will is no easy task, especially when you’re trying to balance family, finances, and future planning. If you’re a parent in Scotland, it’s even more important to get it right. Your will doesn’t just deal with who inherits what, but also helps secure your children’s wellbeing and avoids confusion for your loved ones later on.
This guide explains what you need to know and why acting sooner is better than waiting. Keep reading to find out exactly how to protect your family’s future.
Why having a will matters for parents
When you’re raising a family, your focus is naturally on the present, whether its school runs, packed lunches, or growing responsibilities. But life is unpredictable. Without a valid will, your estate might not go to the people you intend. In Scotland, the law steps in and distributes your assets according to strict rules. This can overlook partners, stepchildren, or people you trust most.
More importantly, if your children are under 16, your will allows you to name a guardian. Without this, the courts decide who takes care of them. That’s not a risk any parent wants to take.
What should your will cover?
At the very least, your will should name your executors, the people responsible for making sure your wishes are carried out. It should also clearly outline how your money, property, and belongings should be divided.
This includes any property you own, such as your home, second homes, or rental properties. You can specify who should inherit each property, whether it’s being passed on to a partner, children, or even sold with proceeds divided among beneficiaries. If the property is jointly owned, it’s important to clarify what should happen to your share.
For families, one of the biggest decisions is about guardianship. If both parents pass away, who should care for the children? This needs to be clearly stated in the will to ensure your children are raised by someone you trust.
You can also include specific gifts, whether that’s a family heirloom, a piece of jewellery, or money set aside for education.
Getting advice from family legal experts in Scotland helps you make sure these details are properly included and legally sound. It avoids errors that could lead to delays or disputes later.
When is the right time to write a will?
There’s a common belief that wills are for the elderly. In reality, the best time to write one is once you have children, buy property, or have any savings. Life changes, such as marriage, divorce, births, and deaths, mean your will should be updated regularly too.
Leaving it too late can create unnecessary stress for your family. Having a will in place gives you peace of mind and spares your loved ones from legal complications when they’re already grieving.
A clear step towards protection
Getting your will sorted might not be the most exciting thing on your to-do list, but it’s one of the most caring things you can do for your family. It gives you control, protects your children, and ensures your wishes are respected.
If you’re unsure where to start, reach out to a qualified solicitor who understands Scotland’s legal system. It’s a small step today that could mean everything tomorrow.
