Air Ambulance NI Interview 

RORY PATTON, FROM FG PATTON SOLICITORS, DUNGANNON, ANSWERED SOME QUESTIONS ABOUT THE IMPORTANCE OF MAKING A WILL.  

o  Why do you support Air Ambulance NI?

I think Air Ambulance Ni holds a special place for many people in NI because we didn’t have a service like this for such a long time and people have real pride in it now that it is there. It also clearly does incredible work on a daily basis saving lives that wouldn’t have previously been saved.

o  Why is it so important to prepare a Will?

Preparing a Will is so important because without one, your estate may not be distributed in accordance with your wishes which may in turn lead to disputes amongst your family and friends. By making a Will, you can clearly set out your intentions giving your peace of mind that your affairs are in order.

o  Are you enjoying participating in AANI’s ‘Organise your Will’ campaign?

Yes its great to engage with it again with the campaign after the success of last’s year. The AANI team do a great job getting the word out there in the local press and online.

o  How is AANI’s campaign beneficial to Will makers?

It gives us an introduction to new clients that we may not have ordinarily had because they are coming to us as a participating firm in the campaign

o  How long does it take to prepare a Will?

A basic Will can be prepared very quickly within a matter of minutes if the circumstances require. More complicated Wills involving trusts for example are more likely to require a second appointment to allow the solicitor some time to do the drafting.

o  Are there any Will making myths you can dispel?

Many people believe they are obligated to leave their estate in a certain way to certain people and we are regularly reminding Will makers of their freedom to distribute their estate as they choose. I think a lot of people also assume that Wills are both complicated and expensive which is not the case.

o  Before making a Will, what do people need to think about?

The key points are the identity of your executors i.e. those people who will be responsible for administering your Will and your beneficiaries in terms of who is to receive what and when

o  Is there anything else you would like to share?

I would just reiterate how quick and easy it can be to make a Will and it is something that we will all require one day. In many respects, it is quite a considerate and selfless thing to do because you won’t be affected by not having a Will however your nearest and dearest could be and it is them really that you are doing it for.