How do I include my step-children in my Will?

When writing a Will, the term ‘my child’ or ‘my children’ does not automatically include step-children, it only includes biological children and formally adopted children of the person making the Will. If you wish to include step-children, they must be specifically referred to in your Will. This is why we at Johnson Astills always discuss your family circumstances when preparing Wills to ensure that they are prepared in such a way to include your chosen beneficiaries.

What happens if I die without a Will?

If you die without a Will, your estate will pass under the rules of Intestacy. You can read more about these rules here. In any event, under the relevant legislation, step-children are not automatically included. The term ‘issue’ is used to refer to direct descendants of the deceased, and again, this only includes biological children, formally adopted children, and illegitimate children. As such, if you have step-children you wish to inherit from your estate, our expert solicitors are Johnson Astills would be pleased to assist in preparing a Will to reflect your wishes.

What if I have children from a previous relationship?

Blended families are not uncommon, and if you and your partner have children from a previous relationship, you may need to consider carefully what happens to your estate upon your death so that everyone inherits in the way you would like them to. Our solicitors at Johnson Astills can discuss your wishes and advise you on various options before preparing Wills that reflect your wishes.  

Should you wish to prepare a Will, or discuss anything relating to the provisions of an existing Will further, please call our expert solicitors at Johnson Astills who would be pleased to assist you with this. You can call us at our office in Leicester or our office in Loughborough. Alternatively, you may prefer to email us at legal@johnsonastills.com or fill in our enquiry form.