“What does this mean for me?”
Unsure about a document or responsibility? Bring the part you want explained. Ask what needs clarification and when a qualified legal professional should be involved.
Legal guidance, wills & trusts
A will or a trust? Where do you start?
You know who matters to you. Choosing how to record your wishes can be less obvious. Discover what wills, trusts and legal guidance are for, then ask which questions matter for your family and assets.
Put wishes into words Make roles clearer Know what to ask
Clarify decisionsLegal Guidance
01Structure assetsTrust Planning
02Protect peopleFamily Legacy
03Record wishesEstate Planning
0401 / Different tools, different purposes
Your wishes come first. The right questions follow.
Before choosing a document, think about what you want made clear. These three starting points can help you have a more useful conversation.
“Who would manage the assets?”
A trust can set out how assets are managed for beneficiaries. Could that purpose be relevant to your wishes? Ask about responsibilities, control, costs and suitability.
“How do I make my wishes known?”
A will can record estate wishes and name an executor. Start with the people you want to consider, then ask how your wishes can be documented under the applicable rules.
02 / Turn a wish into a useful question
You know what matters. What needs to be made clear?
You may recognise one of these wishes. An advisor can help you organise the questions before you take the next step with the right professional.
What you want to happen
- “I want the people I care about to be considered.”
- “I want someone suitable to carry out my wishes.”
- “I want my documents to reflect my life today.”
What to ask about
- Which people, assets and wishes should the discussion include?
- What responsibilities come with the roles I am considering?
- Which existing documents need a qualified review?
Legal requirements depend on your circumstances and the law that applies. An initial discussion helps identify the appropriate next step.
03 / Make the first conversation count
Start with a wish. Find your next question.
You do not need to choose a legal document today. First, find out what the process involves, what may fit your wishes and which fees or professional services to ask about.
Your wishes
Tell us what you would like your arrangements to address.
Your questions
Point out the document, role or decision you find unclear.
The details
Ask about scope, costs and the professional advice your situation needs.
Your next step
Understand what to prepare before moving into a detailed review.
04 / Common questions
Still wondering where to begin?
Do I need to choose a will or a trust before I contact you?
No. Begin with what you want to achieve. They serve different purposes, and your questions can help identify which arrangements need closer consideration.
Can I ask about an arrangement I already have?
Yes. Tell us what has changed or which part you want explained. Ask whether your existing documents should be reviewed by a qualified legal professional.
Will I need every document ready for the first conversation?
Start with your main wish or question and a simple overview of the people or assets involved. Ask the advisor what will be useful for the next stage.
Your wishes deserve a conversation
What would you want your documents to say?
Tell an i~Life advisor what matters to you. Ask how wills, trusts or legal guidance could relate to your wishes before deciding what comes next.
Ask About My OptionsInformation on this page is provided for general educational purposes only and does not constitute legal, tax or financial advice. Wills, trusts, succession and estate administration can vary according to applicable law, religion, jurisdiction, asset ownership and individual circumstances. Appropriate professional advice should be obtained before acting.