When drafting a will , thoughts instinctively turn to significant assets such as properties, bank accounts , and cherished family heirlooms.

However, crucial smaller details are frequently overlooked, potentially leading to significant future complications.

A last will and testament stands as one of life's most vital legal documents, demanding meticulous attention to detail to ensure its accuracy and effectiveness.

Emma Bryson, a senior associate within Michelmores' disputed wills and estates team, has identified four common omissions that frequently escape people's minds during the will -writing process.

Addressing these often-forgotten elements could pre-empt considerable confusion and stress for loved ones further down the line.

1) Alternative or replacement beneficiaries

(Alamy/PA)

Clearly naming alternative or replacement beneficiaries in your will is a sensible back-up plan that most of us forget to do.

“If the donee, who is the recipient of the gift under the will, dies before the testator…