Key stages in making a will

Overcome the natural inertia. I don't want to think about it, I will get around to it eventually.

I'm married, with children, and really must see a solicitor but my spouse /civil partner both work and we never have time.

A close friend has just died leaving no Will, what a mess! The poor family concerned would really have appreciated a Will to guide them. I must do it.

I have contacted a solicitor and I have got a questionnaire to help channel my thoughts

Who shall I have as Executors? My spouse/civil partner is an obvious choice; but who in the middle of bereavement wants to deal with tax forms, the Oath to the Court, and the endless paper chase with various asset holders.

It's a family affair so I want someone sympathetic, but also someone who is good with paper and figures.

I own land so two executors would be needed maybe I'll select different individuals with the necessary skill mix.

I have chosen my executors. But I also have children so I need to appoint a Guardian

Funeral wishes? Cremation or burial?

Personal belongings? There are one or two items that I would specifically like to give to certain individuals.

Tax planning? I live in the South of England, and due to property prices rising our combined assets are over £300,000 including endowment policies. I have worked hard all my life and out of the taxed income I have saved, they will take 40% over £300,000 of everything that is not left to my spouse or a charity. Hmm, I had better find out more on these discretionary trust Wills. I want to leave everything to my family but there are a couple of people who I would like to give some money to by way of token. I also have one favourite charity who need all the money they can get.

Everything that's left: I want it all to go to my spouse, and if he or she predeceases me to my children, but what if one of them dies? To the grandchildren or to the surviving children? Decisions…And with young children when would they become absolutely entitled age 18, or 21 or 25. What happened in the 2006 budget to penalise deferred gifts to children under 25 but over 18?

I have completed my questionnaire and have sent it to my solicitor, there have been some discussions clarifying my thoughts. I now know what I want to do.

I have attended the solicitor's office and in compliance with an arcane Act the Will has been validly executed and they will keep the Will for me in their strong room.

Relief all round... job done!