In the short term, or in a critical situation, having a simple handwritten Will in place may be better than having no Will at all, but we always advise you to consult a solicitor as soon as possible.

This is an outline example of a very simple Will that can be copied, handwritten, and amended to suit your own circumstances.

The outline assumes that the person making the Will (the testator) wishes to leave everything to her husband, otherwise to her two children. The most important clauses are in red, and examples of wording for others are in black - you can tailor the wording to suit your own circumstances.

The key items to include are the appointment of executor(s), and a clause dealing with the residue of the estate (i.e. everything left over after all debts, expenses, legacies etc have been dealt with). Executors can also be beneficiaries if you wish. Do not worry about using 'legal' language, it is more important that your intentions are clear.

The Will MUST be signed and dated. If it goes onto more than one page, it must be signed by the testator at the bottom of every page. If possible, the signing should be witnessed by someone who is not mentioned in the Will. If it's not possible to have a witness present when signing, do not let this hold you up, sign and date the Will anyway. Contact your solicitor as soon as possible for professional advice.