Estate administration 'much easier if you plan ahead'

Estate administration will be much easier for family and loved ones if individuals plan ahead and ensure they have written a will detailing how they would like their assets to be divided, one expert has observed.

Business.Scotsman.Com reports "scrimping" on will-writing by using a DIY kit or engaging someone who offers poor legal services is liable to result in estate administration problems, which could include a testament being invalid or poorly written, resulting in confusion and heartache.

The publication reveals estate administration can be made easier if individuals write down all their assets and finances to give themselves a better idea of their personal wealth and make it easier to work out how assets should be divided.

And those writing a will are counselled not to think of the act as something for people with not long left to live, as legal experts recommend drafting a testament as soon as possible, which can then be revised later if necessary.

It was recently revealed Charles Darwin - who originally trained as an Anglican parson - died leaving an estate worth around £13 million, suggesting it is likely he reappraised his will in light of appreciating wealth.