My friend is wondering whether it's worth the bother to make a will. What can I tell her?

There are many good reasons for making a will:

• When you die without a will, your property and possessions are distributed in accordance with the laws on intestacy rather than in accordance with your wishes.
• You can formally decide who receives specific property and possessions rather than have your family fight about them after your death.
• If you do not make a will, any property that you own cannot be distributed until an administrator has been appointed.
• If you are responsible for children under the age of majority or children who are incapacitated, you can provide for their future care by appointing guardians in your will.

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January 2006

see also:

• More Abuse of Older Adults FAQs

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