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Your Guide to Creating Your Will for the First Time

The prospect of creating your first will can be daunting for many people.

It is, incorrectly seen as a document that is only signed and created for people who are close to passing away. However, it is generally advised that if you have children, if you have recently bought a property or come into a large amount of money, you create a Will. That way, all of your assets can be divided as you wish them to be when you pass away.

Of course, the idea of creating a Will from scratch is daunting, and this article will walk you through some of the steps you need to take to ensure that writing your will for the first time goes off without a hitch. So, enjoy!

List All Your Beneficiaries

Firstly, it is advised that you list all of the beneficiaries that you have. In simple terms, these are the people or, indeed the charities who will receive a portion of your assets after you have passed away. If you wish to leave a legacy gift or are planning on leaving a legacy gift to MacMillan or another charity, you should write this down, so that the lawyer who is going to draft the first copy of your will should be made aware of this.

It is also important if you live in the United Kingdom or the United States that if you want to leave part of your assets to any step-children, grandchildren nieces, or nephews, that you stipulate this clearly in your will. It may seem obvious that you have a great relationship with your stepson; however, legally, if you pass away without naming him in your will, he will not inherit anything when you pass. So, be sure to get his name down as well as the names of any other distant relatives when you hand the will template over to your legal team.

Seek Out a Lawyer

You can use an at-home or DIY Will kit, but hiring a lawyer or attorney to write your will is the preferable route for many people, and for a good reason. You need to have a professional trained in this area who can help you offer reassurance that you are unlikely to find anywhere else in the crafting, writing, and even the wording of your will. They will ensure that all of the wording in the will is correct, all the terms are correct, and that your will adheres to any laws in the area where you live.

Finding a lawyer to draft your will may be difficult depending on where you live, especially if you live in a remote area. So, you may need to go online and seek the advice of friends and family to narrow down the list of professionals who can assist you with this task. Also, while it may seem obvious, don’t just choose the cheapest option to write your will. They may produce a document that seems legal, but may be full of errors. Shop around and get an average of how much it will likely cost to have your will drafted, and then, choose your favorite professional.

Inventory Your Assets

Next, you need to look at the assets that you have. As mentioned before, writing a will is more common after you have purchased your first home, or if you have come into a large sum of money. You will need to list all of the expensive things that you have that you would like to be passed on such as a home that you own, any cars, jewelry, stocks or bonds, or other valuables. You also need to make sure that you have the person or beneficiary in mind who will receive them.

Name an Executor

Then, you need to name an executor of your estate.

The executor is the person who will be legally responsible for carrying out the instructions that have been left in your will and handling your estate. This can be a family member or, you can instruct that the lawyer or attorney who wrote your will takes on this role. Many people find this preferable, as they are aware that their family will likely be grieving, and may find this additional responsibility hard.

Then, once you have a physical copy of your will, keep it somewhere safe and inform a family member of where it is. There will also be digital copies, but it is best to keep your physical copy safe due to the high rate of tampering that can occur with digital wills.

Considering A Career As A Writer? Here’s How You Can Prepare

Embarking on a writing career is great for those seeking a creative and exciting career. Whether you’re inspired by the thought of crafting novels, penning articles, or scripting screenplays, the journey to becoming a successful writer requires preparation, persistence, and passion. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you prepare for a rewarding career in writing.

The Different Types of Writing

Before diving headfirst into the world of writing, it’s essential to understand the various types of writing careers available. Fiction writers create stories from their imagination, while non-fiction writers focus on factual content. Journalism, blogging, technical writing, copywriting, and content writing are other viable options. Each type demands different skills and caters to different audiences, so it’s crucial to identify which niche aligns with your interests and strengths.

Develop Your Writing Skills

Good writing skills are the foundation of a successful writing career. Here’s how you can hone your abilities:

Read Widely and Regularly

Reading a variety of genres and authors can significantly improve your writing. It exposes you to different writing styles, vocabulary, and ideas, which you can incorporate into your own work. Analyse how successful authors structure their narratives, develop characters, and engage their readers.

Write Daily

Practice is key to improvement. Set aside time each day to write, whether it’s journaling, blogging, or working on a project. Consistent writing helps you develop your voice and refine your technique. Don’t be afraid of producing imperfect work; the goal is to keep writing and improving.

Seek Feedback

Sharing your work with others and receiving constructive criticism is invaluable. Join writing groups or workshops, either in-person or online. These communities provide a supportive environment where you can learn from peers and gain insights into your writing.

Educate Yourself

While natural talent is beneficial, formal education can enhance your writing skills and provide a deeper understanding of the craft. Consider higher education courses for subjects relevant to your chosen career, such as journalism degrees, English literature, or creative writing.

Take Writing Courses

Enrol in writing courses, either through a university, community college, or online platforms. Courses can cover a range of topics, from creative writing and journalism to technical writing and screenwriting. They often provide structured learning, expert feedback, and opportunities to connect with fellow writers. English Literature revision is key for a range of topics related to courses in writing or journalism and helps create a deeper understanding of different writing techniques and skills.

Attend Workshops and Conferences

Writing workshops and conferences offer intensive training, networking opportunities, and exposure to industry professionals. They can be an excellent way to learn new techniques, stay updated on industry trends, and get inspired by fellow writers.

Build a Portfolio

A strong portfolio showcases your writing skills and versatility to potential employers or clients. Start by compiling your best work, whether it’s published articles, blog posts, or short stories. If you’re just starting, consider creating sample pieces or offering your services pro bono to build your portfolio.

Create a Blog or Website

Having an online presence is crucial for modern writers. A personal blog or website acts as a digital portfolio where you can display your work, share your writing journey, and attract potential clients or publishers.

Understand the Business Side

Writing as a career isn’t just about the craft; it’s also about understanding the business aspects. This includes marketing your work, negotiating contracts, and managing finances.

Learn About Publishing

Familiarise yourself with the publishing process, whether you’re interested in traditional publishing or self-publishing. Understand the roles of literary agents, editors, and publishers, and learn how to write compelling query letters and book proposals.

Network with Industry Professionals

Networking can open doors to opportunities and provide valuable insights into the industry. Attend literary events, join professional organisations, and connect with writers, agents, and publishers on social media. Building relationships within the industry can lead to collaborations, mentorships, and job opportunities.

Manage Your Finances

Freelance writing often means irregular income, so it’s essential to manage your finances wisely. Create a budget, set aside savings, and consider diversifying your income streams through various writing gigs. Understanding the financial aspect will help you sustain your career in the long run.

Stay Motivated and Persistent

The path to a successful writing career is rarely smooth. Rejections, writer’s block, and self-doubt are common challenges. Staying motivated and persistent is crucial.

Set Goals

Setting both short-term and long-term goals can keep you focused and motivated. Whether it’s completing a certain number of words per day, finishing a project by a deadline, or submitting work to publishers, clear goals provide direction and a sense of accomplishment.

Embrace Rejection

Rejection is part of the writing journey. Instead of being discouraged, view rejections as learning opportunities. Seek feedback, revise your work, and keep submitting. Persistence is key to eventually getting your work published.

Celebrate Small Wins

Celebrate your progress, no matter how small. Finished a draft? Submitted an article? Landed a freelance gig? Acknowledge these achievements to stay positive and motivated.

Conclusion

Preparing for a career as a writer involves developing your skills, building a portfolio, understanding the business, and maintaining persistence. By following these steps and continuously improving, you can navigate the challenges of the writing world and find success in your chosen path. Remember, every writer’s journey is unique, so embrace your path and keep writing.

Dog Bites on Your Property: Are You in Legal Trouble?

As a canine owner, you know that in the unfortunate event that your dog attacks another animal or person, you could be held liable. However, what happens if your dog bites someone on your own property? Of course, the thought of home defense might come to mind, making you assume you’re in the clear, but a situation like this can be quite complex.

You’re Liable, Except in Certain Circumstances

In every state, a dog owner will be legally responsible if another person gets injured by their dog on their property. After all, a dog bite can be very serious and, not to mention, risk infection. However, there are a few situations where the dog owner might not be held liable after all.

For example, if there’s evidence that the victim trespassed on the property, and therefore was considered an intruder, there wouldn’t be a case for the victim. Additionally, if there was a reasonable cause for the dog to strike the victim, then again, the owner may not be liable.

Examples of the latter include a burglar breaking into the home, a person yelling and acting out – making the dog feel threatened, or a person hurting the dog first – and thus, the dog defending itself.

Owning a Dangerous Dog is a Crime

In the event that the dog bit someone on your property when they weren’t an intruder and if there was no reasonable cause for the dog to attack, then the dog may be considered dangerous. In turn, the owner of the canine can be legally held responsible, usually in the form of paying fines and/or reimbursing the victim for any medical or emotional injuries.

If the dog has bitten more than one person, has rabies, or severely injured someone, then in certain states like California or Utah, the dog may be required to be euthanized. This is because the dog is viewed as a threat to public safety.

When in Doubt, Speak to a Lawyer

Sometimes a situation involving a dog bite can be tricky. While nobody wants it to turn into a legal issue, sometimes it comes to that point. The important thing to remember now is that the situation already happened, and all you can do now is prepare for the future.

Whether or not the victim actually ends up taking you to court, sometimes the best thing you can do is get in touch with a Personal Injury Lawyer Utah to ensure you’re covered by the best legal assistance possible. Even if you do end up going to court and being found guilty, the right lawyer can potentially help fight some of the charges.

Conclusion

When your dog nips someone on your property, you’re not always in the clear. The legal interpretation of the event will depend on numerous circumstances including whether the individual who got bit was an intruder or not, how bad the bite was, and so on. This situation can get complicated, but in the end, it’s critical to take responsibility as a dog owner.

Protecting your family’s legacy in Spain, with an inheritance lawyer

property in spain — Photo by Zac Cain on Unsplash

Owning a family home in Spain for so many families can seem like a dream come true. Why not after all? It offers the chance of a sunny retreat for holidays and a warm, pleasant place to retire. However, it is also clearly a valuable asset which can form a large part of family wealth. When it comes to passing this valuable asset down to your children or other loved ones, the dream can quickly turn into a legal nightmare without the proper guidance. This is where an inheritance lawyer becomes essential, particularly if your property is located in a complex legal jurisdiction like Spain.

Complex Spanish Inheritance Laws

Spanish inheritance laws are intricate and can differ significantly from those in UK and elsewhere. Spain follows a system which is often known as “forced heirship”. Although the potential heir can choose to refuse the bequest if they wish. Forced Heirship means that a part of your estate must be left to specific relatives, for example your children or your husband/wife depending on your individual family situation. This can complicate matters if your wishes differ from those legal requirements and you won’t have the complete freedom to leave your property as you wish to as you might have elsewhere in Europe. For example, you might have other property elsewhere that you want to leave to those family members like another home in the UK. This makes the situation more complicated and difficult to navigate. So for many an experienced inheritance lawyer is the way forward. They can help you navigate these laws, ensuring your wishes are respected while complying with Spanish legal regulations.

Handling Cross-Border Legalities

If you’re a non-Spanish national, handling the inheritance of a Spanish property involves understanding both Spanish and international law. Knowing which aspects of law and which legal systems apply to what situations is tricky. Legal choices can have significant implications for those potentially inheriting. Again employing someone with the right expertise can provide invaluable assistance and help you avoid costly mistakes.

Spanish Tax

Inheritance tax in Spain can be quite high, but also quite variable depending on the region and the relationship between the deceased and the potential heir. An inheritance lawyer will have detailed knowledge of these local tax laws and can help minimize the tax burden on your heirs through careful planning.

Managing Property Transfers

Like in the UK transferring ownership of a property in Spain involves several administrative steps. Property transfers should always be handled by a legal expert and again local knowledge pays off as a local lawyer will make sure all the necessary steps are completed correctly and efficiently. For instance, if you are dealing with a property in Alicante, an inheritance lawyer in Alicante would be well placed to help you make sure everything runs smoothly.

Avoid Family Disputes

Inheritance matters can often lead to family disputes, especially when significant assets like a family home are involved. Lawyers can not only ensure that all legal requirements are met, help in the preparation of necessary documents, and provide ongoing support throughout the process. This means that your intentions will be well documented and everyone will know where they stand.

Conclusion

Getting good quality legal expertise when dealing with a family home in Spain cannot be overstated. From navigating complex inheritance laws and Spanish tax implications to ensuring the property is transferred smoothly, their expertise is really essential. Investing in professional legal advice today can save significant stress in the future for all concerned.