It is important that you make a Will since you place yourself in a position to provide for the distribution of your property by means of a clear legal document which will only take effect when you die. It allows an individual to provide for the special needs of family members and furthermore it can also be used with proper advice as a tax planning opportunity. If you do not make a Will you lose your chance to appoint an executor to handle your affairs and, furthermore, your estate will be divided in accordance with the law of the land and not necessarily in the manner which you might have desired. The question of intestacy is set out in more detail hereafter under the heading, "What if I don't make a Will?".