Estate planning conversations depend on more than a list of assets. Family circumstances, ownership arrangements, existing documents, and personal wishes all help explain the starting point. This overview is designed to help prepare for a discussion with a qualified adviser, not to create or amend an estate plan.
THE CENTRAL QUESTION
Give your wishes a clear starting point.
Map the people, existing arrangements, and life changes behind your planning questions.
Describe your circumstances
Prepare a general account of your family situation and any people who depend on you. Mention relevant changes since your existing documents were prepared. Where circumstances span more than one country or jurisdiction, identify that early so the scope of advice can be considered.
Map the existing arrangements
List the broad categories of assets and obligations and explain, where known, how they are owned. Locate existing wills and other planning documents without changing or marking the originals. Information about business interests and beneficiary arrangements may also be useful to discuss with an adviser.
Record the questions behind your wishes
You may want to discuss who should benefit, who could carry out administrative responsibilities, or how a business would continue. Note those questions alongside any practical concerns. The adviser can then consider the applicable framework and the further information needed for individual recommendations.
MAKE IT PRACTICAL
Your preparation checklist.
Select items as you prepare. Your selections stay on this page only.
General information, not individual legal advice. Services and engagement terms are subject to firm confirmation.