MANY islanders wrongly think new inheritance laws mean they must change their wills immediately.

Citizens Advice Bureau manager Kate Raleigh said several callers yesterday wanted advice following the States last week approving the introduction of testamentary freedom and the ending of the forced heirship of estates to children and spouses.

But Mrs Raleigh (pictured) warned people not to jump the gun.

‘Before the law comes into force, it has to go to the Law Officers and then on to the Privy Council, so we are talking years rather than weeks before anything changes,’ she said.

‘You will not be able to change anything to fit the new law yet because it has not changed.’

That did not reduce the importance of having a will, though, she said.

‘It is very important to make a will, ensuring that it complies with the 2008 law changes regarding illegitimate children having a claim to property, especially if you own a house.’

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