Understanding Unison Wills: A Comprehensive Guide for UNISON Members

If you're a UNISON member, understanding unison wills is essential for planning your future. These wills are tailored to meet the needs of members, providing unique benefits and legal support that standard wills may not offer. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about unison wills, from their advantages to the legal aspects involved, ensuring you're well-prepared to make informed decisions.

Key Takeaways

Unison wills are specifically designed for UNISON members, offering tailored legal support.
Having a unison will can help avoid the complexities of intestacy laws and ensure your wishes are respected.
The costs associated with writing a unison will are often reduced for members, making it more accessible.
UNISON provides resources and legal advice to assist members in creating and managing their wills.
Executors of unison wills receive guidance from UNISON to help them navigate their responsibilities effectively.

Overview Of Unison Wills

What Are Unison Wills?

So, what exactly are Unison Wills? Well, they're not some completely separate type of will, but rather a service offered to members of the Unison trade union to help them create a will. The main thing to remember is that Unison Wills are a way for union members to access affordable and reliable will-writing services. It's all about making sure your affairs are in order without breaking the bank. Unison often partners with legal firms to provide these services, meaning you get professional help at a reduced cost. It's a pretty good perk, really.

Benefits Of Having A Unison Will

Okay, so why bother with a Unison Will? There are a few good reasons:

Cost Savings: This is a big one. Will writing can be expensive, but Unison members usually get a discounted rate. Every penny counts, right?
Professional Advice: You're not just filling out a template online. You get actual legal advice, making sure your will is valid and covers everything it needs to.
Peace of Mind: Knowing you've got a legally sound will in place is a huge weight off your shoulders. It means your loved ones are taken care of, and that's what matters.

Having a will sorted out is one of those things you know you should do, but it's easy to put off. With Unison Wills, it's a bit easier to get the ball rolling, and you know you're getting a decent service.

How Unison Wills Differ From Standard Wills

Right, so how are Unison Wills different from just getting a will done anywhere else? The key difference isn't in the will itself, but in how you access the service and what it costs. With a standard will, you might go to any solicitor and pay their usual rates. With Unison, you're accessing a service that's been negotiated on behalf of the union's members. This often means:

Lower Costs: As mentioned, Unison members typically get a discount.
Vetted Providers: Unison usually partners with reputable legal firms, so you know you're getting a decent service. The Society of Will Writers can help you find a qualified professional.
Accessibility: It can be easier to get started, as Unison often provides information and support to guide you through the process. Unison offers support to its members. Executors often have to deal with a lot, and Unison's legal experts can guide you through this, ensuring everything is clear.

Legal And Financial Implications

Understanding Intestacy Laws

So, what happens if you don't have a will? Well, that's where intestacy laws come in. Basically, these are the rules the government has in place to decide who gets what when someone dies without a valid will. It can get pretty complicated, and it might not be what you expect or want. The rules of intestacy dictate how your assets are distributed.

The law prioritises certain relatives, like spouses and children.
Friends, unmarried partners, or charities usually get nothing.
It can lead to family disputes and legal battles.

Intestacy can cause delays and extra costs in administering the estate. It's way better to have a will and make your wishes clear.

Executor Responsibilities

Being an executor is a big job. If you're named as an executor in a Unison will, you're responsible for making sure the will is carried out properly. This means everything from identifying and valuing assets to paying debts and taxes, and finally, distributing the remaining assets to the beneficiaries. It's not always easy, and it can take a fair bit of time and effort. Executors are dealing with legal and financial matters that require attention.

Gathering all the deceased's assets.
Paying any outstanding debts and taxes.
Distributing the estate according to the will.

Costs Associated With Unison Wills

One of the good things about Unison wills is that they can be more affordable than going through a private solicitor. Legal advice is free for members, but there might be some costs involved, especially if the will is complex or if you need extra help with probate. It's always worth checking what's included and what isn't, so you don't get any surprises. Here's a rough idea of potential costs:

Service	Estimated Cost (£)
Basic Will Preparation	Free
Complex Will Amendments	50 - 150
Probate Assistance	Varies

Accessing Unison's Legal Support

How To Get Legal Advice

Okay, so you're a Unison member and need some legal advice? Don't panic! Unison offers ways for its members to get free legal advice for various matters. The first thing to do is contact Unison directly. They usually have a helpline you can call. Explain your situation clearly and they'll point you in the right direction. It might be a phone consultation with a solicitor, or they might have online resources that can help. It really depends on what kind of issue you're dealing with. Remember to have your membership number handy when you call, it will speed things up.

Resources Available For Members

Unison provides a range of resources to support its members with legal matters. These resources are designed to offer guidance and assistance, ensuring members are well-informed and supported throughout any legal process. Here's a quick rundown:

Legal Guides: Unison often has guides covering common legal issues. These can be a good starting point to understand your rights and options. These guides can help you with will writing.
Online Information: Check the Unison website. They usually have a section dedicated to legal support, with FAQs and articles addressing common queries.
Workshops and Seminars: Keep an eye out for any legal workshops or seminars Unison might be running. These can be a great way to learn more and ask questions directly to legal professionals.

It's worth remembering that Unison's legal support is there to help you understand your rights and options. They can't always provide full legal representation in every case, but they can certainly offer guidance and support to help you make informed decisions.

Contacting Unison For Assistance

Need to actually speak to someone? Here's how to get in touch with Unison for legal assistance. The most direct route is usually through their helpline. You can find the number on the Unison website or in your membership pack. When you call, be prepared to give them your membership details and a brief overview of your issue. They'll then be able to advise you on the next steps. If you're not sure where to start, calling the helpline is always a good bet. Unison's legal experts can guide you through this, ensuring everything is clear. You can also try contacting your local Unison branch. They might be able to offer more specific advice or put you in touch with someone who can help. Don't be afraid to reach out – that's what they're there for! You can access Unison's legal services via their helpline.

Writing Your Unison Will

Steps To Create A Will

Okay, so you're thinking about writing your Unison will? Good on you! It's one of those things we all put off, but it's so important to get sorted. Here's a simplified breakdown of the steps involved:

Take stock of your assets. This includes everything you own – property, savings, investments, even your prized stamp collection. Make a list; it'll make the whole process much easier.
Decide who you want to benefit from your will. These are your beneficiaries. Think carefully about who you want to include. It could be family, friends, or even a charity.
Choose your executors. These are the people who will carry out your wishes after you're gone. Pick someone you trust and who is organised. It's a big responsibility.
Consider any specific gifts or bequests you want to make. Do you want your niece to have your jewellery? Or a friend to get your vinyl collection? Be specific.
Actually write the will! You can use Unison's legal support to help with this, which is a massive bonus. They can make sure everything is legally sound.
Get it witnessed. Your will needs to be signed by you and two independent witnesses who are present at the same time. They can't be beneficiaries or their spouses.
Store your will safely. Tell your executors where it is so they can find it when the time comes.

Common Mistakes To Avoid

Making a will can seem straightforward, but there are a few common pitfalls to watch out for:

Not being specific enough. Vague wording can lead to disputes and confusion.
Forgetting to update your will after major life events like marriage, divorce, or the birth of children.
Not understanding the intestacy laws if you don't have a will.
Choosing executors who aren't up to the task. It's a bigger job than you might think.
Failing to get proper legal advice. This is where Unison's services can be really helpful.

It's easy to put off writing a will, but it's one of the most important things you can do to protect your loved ones and ensure your wishes are respected. Don't leave it to chance.

Updating Your Will Over Time

Life changes, and so should your will. It's not a 'one and done' kind of thing. Here's why and how you should keep it up-to-date:

Major life events trigger a review. Marriage, divorce, birth of children, or even significant changes in your financial situation all warrant a look at your will.
Review it every few years anyway. Even if nothing major has happened, it's a good idea to review your will every 3-5 years to make sure it still reflects your wishes.
Keep it simple. If you need to make small changes, you can use a codicil (an amendment to your will). But for big changes, it's often easier to write a new will altogether.
Don't forget to destroy the old one! Once you've made a new will, make sure you destroy the old one to avoid any confusion.

Support For Executors

Being named as an executor in a Unison will is a big responsibility. It means you're in charge of making sure the deceased's wishes are carried out properly. It can feel overwhelming, especially when you're also dealing with grief. Unison recognises this and provides support to its members who take on this role.

Role Of Executors In Unison Wills

So, what exactly does an executor do? Well, it's a bit like being the project manager of someone's estate. The executor's role involves gathering assets, paying debts and taxes, and distributing what's left to the beneficiaries, as outlined in the will. It's a legal and administrative job, and it's important to get it right. Here's a quick rundown:

Identifying and valuing all assets (property, savings, investments, etc.).
Paying any outstanding debts, taxes, and funeral expenses.
Distributing the remaining assets to the beneficiaries named in the will.
Keeping accurate records of all transactions.

Challenges Executors May Face

Being an executor isn't always easy. There can be disagreements among family members, complex legal issues, or just the sheer amount of paperwork can be daunting. Some common challenges include:

Dealing with probate, which can be a lengthy and complicated process.
Managing family disputes over inheritance.
Understanding complex tax laws and regulations.
Finding and valuing obscure or hard-to-locate assets.

It's worth remembering that you don't have to do it all alone. Unison provides guidance and support to help you through the process. Don't be afraid to ask for help when you need it.

Unison's Guidance For Executors

Unison offers a range of resources to support its members who are acting as executors. This can include legal advice, practical guidance, and access to other support services. It's all about making the process a bit less stressful. You can get help with understanding executor responsibilities and navigating the legal aspects of estate administration. Here's what's typically available:

Access to legal advice from qualified solicitors.
Guidance on completing probate forms and other paperwork.
Information on tax implications and how to manage them.
Support in resolving disputes with beneficiaries.

Frequently Asked Questions About Unison Wills

Common Queries From Members

So, you're thinking about a Unison Will, and you've got questions? You're not alone! Lots of Unison members have similar queries when they first start looking into it. One of the most frequent questions is about eligibility – who exactly can get a Unison Will? Generally, it's open to all Unison members, but it's always worth checking the specifics with Unison directly, as membership criteria and legal help can sometimes change.

Another common question revolves around the cost. While Unison Wills often come with reduced rates, especially compared to high street solicitors, it's important to understand what's included and if there are any extra charges for more complex situations. For example:

What happens if you need to update your will?
Are there fees for storing the will securely?
What about probate services?

Finally, many members wonder about the level of legal support they'll receive. Unison's legal experts can guide you through the process, but it's good to know what kind of assistance is available, especially if you're dealing with a tricky family situation or have specific wishes you want to include in your will.

Clarifying Misconceptions

There are a few misconceptions floating around about Unison Wills, so let's clear some of those up. One common one is that Unison Wills are only for simple estates. While they're great for straightforward situations, they can also be used for more complex estates, although you might need to pay a bit more. It's always best to discuss your individual circumstances with Unison's legal team to see if a Unison Will is right for you.

Another misconception is that Unison Wills are somehow less valid than wills drawn up by private solicitors. That's simply not true. As long as the will is properly executed (signed and witnessed correctly), it's a legally binding document, regardless of who prepared it. The key is to make sure you understand everything in the will and that it accurately reflects your wishes.

It's also important to remember that a Unison Will only covers your assets. It doesn't deal with things like pensions or life insurance policies, which usually have their own nomination forms. Make sure you keep those up to date as well!

Where To Find More Information

Okay, so you're keen to learn more? Great! The first place to start is the Unison website. They usually have a dedicated section on Unison will writing with FAQs, guides, and contact details. Your local Unison branch is another good source of information. They might be able to put you in touch with someone who can answer your specific questions or even run workshops on will writing.

You can also contact UNISONdirect. Their phone number is 0800 0 857 857. They are available Monday to Friday 6am to Midnight and Saturday 9am to 4pm. Don't be afraid to ask questions – it's better to be informed than to make assumptions. Remember, getting your affairs in order is one of the most important things you can do for your loved ones, so take the time to do it right.

If you have questions about Unison Wills, you're not alone! Many people wonder about the process and what it involves. To find out more and get the answers you need, visit our website today. We’re here to help you every step of the way!

Final Thoughts on Unison Wills

In summary, understanding Unison wills is key for members wanting to secure their wishes and protect their loved ones. It’s not just about writing a will; it’s about ensuring everything is in order when it’s needed most. Unison provides valuable support, from legal advice to resources that can help you through the process. Remember, it’s wise to seek help early and keep your membership details up to date. If you have questions or need assistance, don’t hesitate to reach out to your local branch or contact UNISONdirect. They’re there to help you every step of the way.

Frequently Asked Questions

What exactly are Unison Wills?

Unison Wills are legal documents created for members of UNISON to outline how their assets should be distributed after they pass away.

What are the advantages of having a Unison Will?

Having a Unison Will ensures that your wishes are followed regarding your belongings, and it can make the process easier for your family during a difficult time.

How do Unison Wills differ from regular wills?

Unison Wills are specifically tailored for UNISON members, often providing additional support and resources compared to standard wills.

What happens if someone dies without a will?

If a person dies without a will, their assets are distributed according to intestacy laws, which may not align with their wishes.

How can I get help writing my Unison Will?

Members can access legal advice and support from UNISON to help them create their wills and ensure everything is in order.

What should I do if I need to update my will?

It's important to review and update your will regularly, especially after major life changes, and you can seek guidance from UNISON for this process.