a will that does what you think it does.
A will decides who gets what, who sorts it out, and who looks after your children. I write it with you at home, explain every line, and make sure it's signed and witnessed properly.
explained line by line.
single or mirror?
Single will — £149. One will for one person. Right if you're single, widowed, or you and your partner want quite different things.
Mirror wills — £249 for a couple. Two matching wills: usually everything to each other, then to the children. Most couples ask for these.
Mirror wills are simple and they suit a lot of people. But they have a gap: once one of you has died, the survivor can change their will — or remarry, which cancels it. That's how children end up disinherited. I'll always check whether that matters for you. How sideways disinheritance happens.
what goes in it
- Executors — the people who deal with everything after you've gone.
- Guardians — who looks after your children if they're under 18.
- Gifts — particular things or amounts to particular people.
- Everything else — who gets the rest, and what happens if they die before you.
- Your wishes — funeral, pets, anything else you want written down.
what if I don't make one?
The law decides for you. That usually works out fine for married couples with children — but not always, and not at all for unmarried partners, who get nothing automatically. Stepchildren aren't included either.
It's cheaper to write a will than to sort out the mess without one.
questions
do I need a solicitor to make a will?
No. There's no legal requirement to use a solicitor. I'm not a solicitor — I'm a will writer. If your situation needs one, for example property abroad or a complicated business, I'll tell you.
who can witness my will?
Two adults, both in the room when you sign. They mustn't be people who inherit under the will, or married to someone who does. I make sure this is done properly at the signing.
how long does it take?
[CONFIRM typical turnaround — e.g. drafts within X days of the visit.]
when should I update my will?
After anything big: marriage (which cancels an existing will), divorce, a new child or grandchild, a house move, or someone in the will dying. Otherwise, have a look every five years or so.