If you leave a will, your executor will carry out its instructions. An executor is someone you nominate to sort out your money and property after you die. It may be a relative or friend, or a professional person such as a solicitor or bank manager. A professional will charge a fee.

If you die without making a will, this is called dying intestate. If this happens, your personal representative, usually your closest living relative, may have to seek probate (permission to handle your affairs). Your possessions will be divided up according to strict rules laid down by law, which may not necessarily reflect your wishes.

It isn't difficult to make a will or to get someone, such as a solicitor, to make it for you.

• You may prefer to make your own will, especially if your affairs are likely to be very straightforward. You can get will-making packs and forms to help you.
  
   
• Most people ask a solicitor to help them make the will. It doesn't have to cost a lot of money. If your affairs are not completely straightforward, using a solicitor is a good idea.
  
   
• Some charities have wills and legacies departments, and can offer will-writing services for a modest fee.

For more information

Community Legal Service Direct
Community Legal Service Direct is the website of Community Legal Services and has useful information on wills and probate.

If I should die
You will find a helpful section about wills and probate on this website.

Age Concern factsheets
These factsheets will tell you more about wills and related matters, such as dealing with a person's estate and getting legal advice.

The Law Society (NI) can help answer questions like 'Why should I make a will?' in straightforward and simple terms and tells you what will happen to your assets and property if you choose not to make a will.