Writing a Will is a strange mixture of legal, financial and family matters. Any one of these items on its own involves a great deal of thought and care; in combination it is sometimes an explosive mixture - many people are discouraged from making a start because it just seems too hard. Our aim is to remove some of the pressure and to allow for clear thinking about considered plans for the distribution of your assets and the arrangements for your children.

The following sections define some of the common terms that are found in most Wills. Issues such as where a person is domiciled can have an important impact on the type of Will available to that individual as the probate systems in different countries and states vary greatly from place to place.

Executors and Trustees appear in every Will and they have similar yet separate duties. You will see that it is not necessary to appoint legal firms to carry out these tasks as is often thought.

For most people, deciding who to leave their assets to is the main decision they make in their Will. However, there is a more important decision for all parents to make. Appointing guardians to care for your children on a temporary and permanent basis often provides the most peace of mind and security for parents.