Writing a will

Making a will is one of the most important things you can do to ensure that your money, property and possessions pass to the people you choose. A will allows you to decide who should benefit from your estate, who should administer your estate and, if relevant, who should act as guardians for your children.

Without a valid will, your estate will be distributed according to the intestacy rules, which may not reflect your wishes and can make things more difficult for your family at an already difficult time.

Margaret works with individuals, couples and families to prepare clear, legally valid wills tailored to their personal circumstances, and aims to make the process straightforward and stress-free.

How I can help

Margaret provides a personal will drafting service and will guide you through the process step by step. This usually includes:

  • An initial discussion about your circumstances and wishes

  • Preparing a draft will for you to review

  • Advice on the signing of the will in accordance with legal formalities

  • Advice on storing your will safely

Margaret aims to explain everything clearly and avoid unnecessary legal jargon, so that you feel comfortable and confident that your affairs are in order.

Wills for Different Circumstances

I prepare wills for a range of different situations, including:

  • Individuals

  • Married couples

  • Unmarried couples

  • Families with young children

  • Second marriages and blended families

  • Elderly clients

  • Clients who own property

  • Clients who wish to leave specific gifts or charitable donations

Every will is different, and Margaret ensures that your will reflects your personal circumstances and wishes.

Fees

Margaret offers fixed fees for will drafting so that you know the cost in advance.

Please see the fees page for further information or get in touch to discuss your requirements and obtain a quote.

Why is a will important?

Many people assume that their estate will automatically pass to their spouse or children, but this is not always the case. If you die without a will, the law sets out who inherits your estate, and this may not be what you would have chosen.

Having a will allows you to:

  • Decide who should inherit your estate

  • Appoint executors to deal with your estate

  • Appoint guardians for children under 18

  • Leave specific gifts or sums of money

  • Make provision for unmarried partners

  • Potentially assist with inheritance tax planning

  • Provide clarity and certainty for your family

A properly drafted will can prevent uncertainty, reduce the risk of disputes and make the administration of your estate much easier.

FAQs

How long does it take to make a will?

Once Margaret has your instructions, a draft will can usually be prepared within a short period of time. The overall timescale depends on how quickly instructions are provided and when the will can be signed.

Do I need a solicitor to make a will?

You are not legally required to use a solicitor, but a professionally will drafted by a solicitor reduces the risk of mistakes, ambiguity or the will being invalid, and ensures that your estate is structured properly.

Can I change my will later?

Yes. Your will should be updated if your circumstances change, for example if you marry, divorce, have children, move house or your financial situation changes.

Where should a will be stored?

A will should be stored safely and executors should know where the original will is kept. I can advise on appropriate storage options.