Legal Expertise for Writing a Valid Will
Writing a will is one of the most important legal documents you will ever make. It ensures your wishes are followed, avoids uncertainty, and provides peace of mind for your family. A properly drafted will gives you control over who benefits from your estate, rather than relying on the rules of intestacy.
Our experienced wills solicitors guide you through the process, whether you need a simple will or more complex trusts and wills. Every document we prepare is legally binding, carefully signed and witnessed, and compliant with UK wills law.
Why Write a Will?
- Prevents assets passing under intestacy to unintended beneficiaries
- Protects wealth from divorce, bankruptcy, or dependency issues
- Ensures fair provision for children, including those from a previous relationship
- Provides for a surviving spouse, civil partner, or dependents
- Reduces the risk of disputes, delays, and unexpected costs after death
Without a will, parts of your estate could automatically pass to the surviving spouse or others outside of your intentions.
Why Do I Need a Solicitor to Write My Will?
While DIY or wills UK templates may seem straightforward, they can be invalid if not executed correctly. Using a qualified lawyer for wills or regulated wills solicitors near me ensures your will is:
- Legally binding under the Wills Act 1837
- Clear and free from risk of invalidity
- Structured for estate and tax planning (e.g. when to set up a trust)
- Adapted for complex families, such as children from a previous relationship or vulnerable beneficiaries
We provide a full range of will services, including:
- Simple Will
- Mirror Wills UK (for a married couple or civil partners)
- Flexible Life Interest Trust Wills
- Discretionary Trust Wills
- Business Property Trust Wills
- Legacy Wills
Our team of wills and probate solicitors offers expert, personalised advice that protects your family’s future.
Frequently Asked Questions.
-
1. How to write a will in the UK?Anyone with mental capacity and over the age of 18 can make a will. To be valid, it must be:
- Made voluntarily and in writing
- Signed and witnessed by two people in your presence
- Compliant with the Wills Act 1837
-
2. How much does it cost to write a will in the UK?The cost of writing a will varies depending on complexity and structure. A typical simple will is in the region of £325-£450 plus VAT. All of our will writers are qualified solicitors regulated by the SRA. Please see our price guide for detailed pricing for our wills services.
-
3. How often should I update my will?Every 2-5 years minimum, or when circumstances change, such as:
- Marriage or divorce
- Birth of a new child
- Inheriting wealth
- Sale of a business
- Other significant life changes
-
4. Do I need a will for overseas assets?Yes. Assets outside the UK may be subject to local succession laws. Our solicitors advise on multi-jurisdictional wills to cover international estates.
-
5. Can I leave my social media accounts in my will?Yes, but each platform has different rules about account succession after death. We can help navigate each platform's requirements to preserve your digital legacy.
-
6. Can I leave my pet in my will?Yes, you can leave your pet to someone specifically in your will. Pets are treated as "property" like any other physical asset.
-
7. Can I leave my pet a gift in my will?No, pets cannot inherit directly from you. Instead, you need an appropriately drafted will that leaves an amount to a person for your pet's benefit.
-
8. At what age should I make a will?Anyone over 18 can make a will. There's no such thing as being "too young" to make a will once you've turned 18. Making a will is the best way to ensure your loved ones receive your estate as intended.
Can’t see what you’re looking for? Contact us.
THE BEST IN THE BUSINESS.
Our dedicated wills and probate solicitors create bespoke wills that reflect your wishes, protect loved ones, and give you long-term certainty. Recognised by Legal 500 among leading law firms, we combine technical expertise with personal care.
Russell Kaminski
Partner and Head of Private Client
Lucy Cresswell
Associate
Alison Rocca
Partner
Jason Stanley
Partner
Holly Greensmith
Solicitor
Matt Fleetwood
Group Chief Executive & Founder
Mark Dawson
Group Managing Director
Amanda McAlister
Head of Group Consumer Brands
Because We Are Here To Help You
At Vault Private Client, we provide more than documents — we provide reassurance.
Whether you need advice on the types of wills, guidance from a lawyer for wills, or help with probate services, we’ll ensure your estate is protected and your loved ones are secure.
“Russ is a pleasure to deal with: responsive, accurate and extremely knowledgeable.”
PROBATE CLIENT
