Why you should use a solicitor for your Will

In recent months, there has been a lot of discussion in the media about modernising the law around wills, including proposals to allow digital wills for the first time. At the same time, DIY will-writing kits and cheap online templates are widely advertised as a quick and easy way to “get it done.”

But when it comes to something as important as making sure your loved ones are protected, the question is: do you want the cheapest option, or the safest one?

Here’s why instructing a solicitor to prepare your will is the most secure way to ensure your wishes are respected.

1. A Will Is a legal document and mistakes can be costly: DIY kits and online templates often look straightforward, but wills are bound by strict legal rules. If the will is not properly signed, witnessed, or worded, it can be declared invalid. An invalid will means your estate could be distributed under the rules of intestacy (and thus not according to your wishes), leaving loved ones with uncertainty, stress, and in some cases, expensive disputes. A solicitor makes sure your will is legally valid, correctly executed, and tailored to your personal circumstances.

2. Every family situation is different: Families today are often more complex than in the past. Second marriages, stepchildren, cohabiting partners, business assets, and overseas property are just a few examples of situations where a “one size fits all” template simply isn’t enough. A solicitor will take the time to understand your circumstances and advise you on how to structure your will so that everyone you want to provide for is properly protected.

3. Preventing disputes: One of the biggest risks of DIY or digital wills is the potential for misunderstanding or disputes after you pass away. Poor wording can create ambiguity, leaving family members to argue over what you really meant. Solicitors draft wills in clear, legally precise language, reducing the chance of costly disputes between beneficiaries. In the long run, this can save your estate far more than the small initial saving of using a DIY option.

4. Advice beyond the will: When you meet with a solicitor, you don’t just get a document, you get tailored advice. Solicitors will consider Inheritance Tax planning, guardianship provisions for children, setting up trusts to protect vulnerable beneficiaries, and also having a Power of Attorney. DIY kits don’t ask these questions, and they could make a huge difference to your family’s future.

5. Peace of mind: Ultimately, making a will is about peace of mind. By instructing a solicitor, you know your will is valid and binding, your estate will go to the people you choose, and you’ve taken professional advice to cover all eventualities. That reassurance is priceless.