Preparing a will is one of the most essential steps to protect your assets and secure your family’s financial stability. However, when it comes to writing it, many people wonder whether to do it themselves or rely on a legal professional. This article outlines the advantages and drawbacks of both methods, helping you make a confident and informed decision.
Preparing a will is one of the most essential steps to protect your assets and secure your family’s financial stability. However, when it comes to writing it, many people wonder whether to do it themselves or rely on a legal professional. This article outlines the advantages and drawbacks of both methods, helping you make a confident and informed decision.
A DIY (do-it-yourself) will is a legally binding document you prepare without professional legal help. Common approaches include:
Writing it by hand, also known as a holographic will
Completing an online template
Purchasing a ready-made will form from a retailer
DIY wills are often chosen because they appear fast, affordable, and private. However, there are significant legal and practical risks that may not be immediately apparent.
Advantages:
Affordable – Many DIY options are free or cost under £50.
Convenient – You can prepare it at home within a few hours.
Private – No need to share personal or financial information with others.
Disadvantages:
High risk of legal mistakes – Missing signatures, unclear wording, or incorrect witnessing can make the will invalid.
No tax strategy – DIY templates rarely consider inheritance tax planning or exemptions.
Weak legal protection – If challenged, a DIY will may not hold up in court.
Limited flexibility – Templates are unsuitable for complex family arrangements or large estates that include property, businesses, or trusts.
Even a small oversight—such as an incorrect date or missing witness—can cause serious legal complications and unintended asset distribution.
Using a solicitor provides assurance that your will is valid, legally sound, and aligned with your personal situation. It also minimizes the risk of misunderstandings and disputes among beneficiaries.
Key Benefits:
Expert knowledge – Solicitors specialise in inheritance law and estate planning.
Personalised advice – Clauses can be tailored to cover children, blended families, overseas assets, or business holdings.
Continued assistance – Solicitors can update your will after significant life events such as marriage, separation, or property purchase.
Legal certainty – Professionally drafted wills are far less likely to be contested in court.
Considerations:
Higher cost – A solicitor’s will usually costs between £150 and £500 or more, depending on complexity.
Time commitment – You’ll need to attend meetings and gather necessary information.
While more expensive, professional assistance helps avoid far greater costs and family disputes in the long run.
Feature | DIY Will | Solicitor-Drafted Will |
Cost | £0–£50 | £150–£500+ |
Ease of Creation | Quick but requires attention to detail | Guided and structured process |
Risk of Legal Errors | High | Very low |
Tax Planning | Not included | Often included |
Customisation | Limited | Fully personalised |
Support for Updates | Manual | Reminder and review services available |
Risk of Disputes | Higher | Lower |
A do-it-yourself approach might work if:
Your estate is small and straightforward
You have no dependants or property
You’re familiar with UK inheritance law
You can write clearly and follow all formal legal requirements
Even in such situations, it is wise to have a solicitor review your draft to ensure validity.
Improperly written wills are among the most common causes of probate disputes in the UK. These conflicts can result in:
Long delays in asset distribution
Costly legal proceedings
Strained family relationships and emotional stress
If you die without a valid will, your estate will be distributed under the Rules of Intestacy—potentially excluding partners, stepchildren, and charities you may have wished to support.
Although DIY wills can seem convenient and affordable, they carry real legal and financial risks. Even minor mistakes can lead to expensive disputes and distress for your family. In contrast, a solicitor-prepared will ensures compliance, clarity, and peace of mind.
If your estate involves significant assets, dependants, or complex personal circumstances, seeking professional legal guidance is strongly recommended to ensure your final wishes are respected exactly as intended.