Advice when it may help
When to get advice before making a will
Many people can make a straightforward will using an online service. Some family, financial or personal circumstances need individual advice first. This does not mean anything is wrong; it means a solicitor can help you avoid an unintended result.
Family circumstances that may need advice
- You have children or dependants from different relationships
- You are unmarried and want to provide for a partner
- Someone may expect to inherit but you do not plan to include them
- You want to protect someone's right to live in a property
- A dispute or challenge appears possible
Property, money or business matters that need a closer look
- You own property or assets outside the UK
- You own a business, farm or property with someone else
- You want to create a trust or attach conditions to a gift
- Inheritance Tax or care-fee planning may be relevant
- Your assets or debts are difficult to describe in standard questions
Concerns about understanding, pressure or a future dispute
Get individual advice if there are questions about mental capacity, memory, pressure, another person's influence or whether someone may later challenge the will. A solicitor can explain the options and make a careful record of the donor's instructions and free choice.
What should you do next?
Write down your family, main assets and wishes, along with anything that feels uncertain. That short note will make a legal conversation quicker and more useful.
A sensible next step
Speak to a solicitor before choosing a service
If any of these circumstances apply, get personal legal advice before relying on an online will service.