If you do not have a will, the law determines who your heirs are. That may fit your wishes, but it does not always do so. The outcome depends on your family situation and relationship status.
The legal order
Spouses, registered partners and children are in the first group of heirs. If there is a partner and children, the statutory division often applies. If there are no heirs in this group, the law looks at parents, siblings and more distant relatives.
An unmarried cohabiting partner is not automatically an heir. A stepchild is also not automatically your heir unless you arrange this.
When a will may be needed
A will can be important if you live together unmarried, have a blended family, want to appoint an executor, want to leave something to someone outside the legal order or want to make specific arrangements for your partner or children.
The Inheritance Guide helps map out your family, assets, debts and wishes. A notary prepares the will and assesses what is legally possible.