E184: What Happens If You Don’t Have a Will? | Inheritance Laws & Estate Planning Basics

E184: What Happens If You Don’t Have a Will? | Inheritance Laws & Estate Planning Basics

From Digg Podcast by CAROLINE O'NEILL

March 30, 2026 · 42 min · Season 15 · Episode 184

About this episode

This episode discusses the importance of writing a will and the implications of dying without one, featuring insights from solicitor Cormac McDonnell.

Something many of us avoid, but all of us need to think about: writing a will. Cormac McDonnell, a qualified solicitor at McNamee McDonnell Solicitors talks through wills, inheritance, and what actually happens if you don’t have your affairs in order. What is a will, do you really need one, and why do so many people keep putting it off? The reality of intestacy (when you die without a will), how your assets are divided, and why the assumption that “everything just goes to your partner” isn’t always true is discussed. What happens if you’re not married, separated, or cohabiting, and why that can leave people more vulnerable than they realise. From choosing guardians for your children, to avoiding conflict and heartbreak down the line, this episode is all about having the conversations now that could save a lot later. It’s practical, it’s eye opening, and it’s something you the listener will take value from. If you’ve ever thought, “I’ll get to that someday,” this is your sign. This episode is about taking control, protecting your people, and making sure your wishes are heard, even when you’re not here to say them. Links from Episode McNamee McDonnell Solicitors Newry…

People in this episode

Host: CAROLINE O'NEILL

Guest: Cormac McDonnell

Topics covered

  • wills
  • inheritance
  • estate planning
  • intestacy
  • asset division
  • guardianship
  • vulnerability

Keywords

  • will
  • inheritance laws
  • estate planning
  • intestacy
  • guardians
  • assets
  • vulnerability
  • separation
  • cohabiting

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: McNamee McDonnell Solicitors, Digg Community

Places: Newry

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