Wills
Will Writing Solicitors
Making a will is not always an easy thing to think about, but a clear and properly drafted will gives your family certainty at a difficult time and ensures your wishes are carried out exactly as you intend.
Our will writing solicitors have been helping families across the country plan for the future for over three decades. We will talk you through your options in plain English, so you always understand what is happening and why.
Why Wills Are Important
Many of us put off writing a will, but having one in place brings real peace of mind. It means:
- Your estate goes to the people you choose, not according to a fixed set of legal rules
- You can appoint guardians for any children under 18
- Your executors have clear instructions, which helps things move more smoothly
- You can make specific gifts to family, friends or causes that matter to you
If you don’t leave a will, the law decides who inherits your estate under the rules of intestacy, these rules do not always reflect what your wishes would be. We’ve covered this in more detail on our Probate and Estate Administration page, or you can contact us directly for further guidance.
Our Will Writing Service
We make writing a will as straightforward as possible. Our service includes:
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A conversation to understand your circumstances and wishes
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Clear advice on the right type of Will for your situation
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Guidance on appointing executors and guardians
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Support with more complex arrangements, including trusts
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A properly drafted, legally sound Will you can rely on
Mirror Wills for Couples
If you’re married, in a civil partnership, or simply want to plan together, a mirror will lets you and your partner set out very similar wishes in two matching documents. It’s a popular and cost-effective option for couples who want to make sure they’ve both thought about the same things, from guardianship of children to what happens to the family home.
Do I Need a Solicitor to Write a Will?
It isn’t a legal requirement, but it’s strongly recommended. A solicitor makes sure all the formal requirements for a valid will are met, from correct signing and witnessing through to confirming you have the capacity to make it, so there is no risk of the will being challenged or set aside on a technicality. They will also make sure it properly reflects your wishes and takes account of anything unusual in your circumstances, such as blended families or business assets.
Trusted By Families Across the Country
Learn more about our team to get a feel for who you’ll be working with on your will. If you’d like to start the process of writing a will, fill out the contact form below or call us on 03300 167 847, and our team will be happy to help.
FAQs
Making a Will FAQs
Can’t find what you’re looking for?
Get in touch and one of our solicitors will get back to you.
How much does it cost to write a will?
The cost of writing a Will depends on your circumstances, whether that’s a straightforward single Will, a mirror Will for couples, or something more complex involving trusts. We’ll always give you a clear, upfront quote before any work begins, so there are no surprises.
Solicitor-drafted vs DIY wills, which is better?
Online will writing kits can seem like a quicker, cheaper option, but they carry real risks. A will that’s incorrectly worded, witnessed, or signed may not be legally valid, which can cause exactly the kind of delay and stress a will is meant to avoid. Speaking to a solicitor means your will is drafted correctly the first time, and reviewed by someone who understands the legalities of making a valid will.
What happens if I don’t have a will?
If you die without a will, you are said to have died intestate, and the intestacy rules determine who inherits your estate. These rules follow a fixed order of priority and take no account of your personal wishes or family arrangements. An unmarried partner, for example, has no automatic entitlement, regardless of how long you have been together. You can read more on our estate administration and probate page.
What’s the difference between a will and a mirror eill?
A standard will covers one person’s wishes. A mirror will is used by couples who want to set out very similar wishes in two matching documents, often more cost-effective than two entirely separate wills.
How can I make a will?
The easiest way to make a will is to speak to a solicitor. At Black Norman, we have a variety of specialists that can help you with will writing, so get in touch.