Solicitor backing Age NI campaign

Solicitor backing Age NI campaign

2 October 2019

A NEWCASTLE solicitor is supporting a new campaign being spearheaded by Age NI to highlight the importance of making a will.

Dominic McInerney says he is “delighted” to support the Will Writing Month campaign throughout October which encourages local people to make a valid will to ensure that their wishes are met after they die. 

As part of the campaign, Age NI will be working with a range of local solicitors, including Dominic’s  practice in Newcastle, to offer the opportunity to have a standard will written for free. 

A limited number of free will appointments are being made available will be offered on a first come, first serve basis.

Age NI fundraising officer, Nikita Ferguson, explained that over past couple of years, the charity has aimed to raise awareness of the importance of writing a will by offering the opportunity for anyone living in Northern Ireland to get a standard will drafted for free. 

“This year we’ll be offering £50 towards the cost of a standard will and are asking participating solicitors to match our contribution, meaning a standard will at £100 would be free to the customer,” she said.

Currently, 54% of adults in the UK do not have a will,and many die intestate, meaning the probate court will decide how to divide their estate without their input. 

Mr McInerney said he was delighted to support the campaign and raise awareness of the importance of having a will. 

“Unfortunately, dying without a will can mean that the people and causes you care about may not be provided for after you’re gone,” he explained.

“It’s important to make a will, not only to ensure that you protect the wishes of your loved ones, but also to ensure you avoid costly taxes on your estate and protect the assets you have worked hard for throughout your lifetime.”

Mr McInerney said using a solicitor who specialises in trusts and estates law ensures wills are correctly drafted and that people have received appropriate and correct advice.

He said this helps to avoid added stress for friends and family at an already emotional time and giving them peace of mind for the future.”

During Will Writing Month, Age NI will also be highlighting the importance of leaving a gift in your will to a charity.

For more information on the campaign visit www.ageni.org/willwritingmonth or telephone 028 9024 5729.