When to use a solicitor
Online will-writing can be a good fit for simple situations. The harder judgement is knowing when “simple” no longer applies.
Situations where advice is safer
GOV.UK says you can get professional advice if your will is not straightforward. Examples include sharing property with someone who is not your spouse or civil partner, leaving money or property to a dependant who cannot care for themselves, having family members who may make a claim, living permanently outside the UK, owning overseas property or having a business.
Use a solicitor or qualified adviser if…
- There are children from a previous relationship.
- Someone may challenge capacity or pressure.
- There is likely to be family conflict.
- You own business assets or overseas property.
- You want to protect a vulnerable beneficiary.
- Inheritance tax planning or trusts may be relevant.
What this means for online comparisons
For a straightforward estate, it can be reasonable to compare online will providers by support level, review options, price, update policy and signing guidance. For a complex estate, the comparison should change: the main question becomes whether the adviser is appropriately regulated and experienced for the issue.
A practical test
If you can explain who should inherit, who should act as executor, and why no one is likely to dispute the will, an online route may be worth comparing. If you find yourself adding exceptions, conditions, family sensitivities or tax questions, advice is usually the safer next step.
Source: GOV.UK write your will.