How Our Will Writing Process Works

A will sets out who inherits your estate, who will administer it and, where relevant, who will look after your children. This page explains how we take your instructions, prepare your will and arrange for it to be signed and stored.

Step 1: Initial Consultation

We start by understanding your circumstances, estate, and specific wishes. During this consultation, we will discuss:

• Your assets (property, savings, investments).
• Your beneficiaries and how you want your estate distributed.
• Guardianship for minor children.
• Trusts or tax planning considerations.
• Choosing executors to carry out your will.

This consultation can take place in person, over the phone, or via video call.

Step 2: Drafting Your Will

Once we have all the necessary details, we will draft your will to meet the legal requirements. The draft will include:

• A clear statement of your wishes.
• Details of beneficiaries and what they will inherit.
• Appointment of executors and guardians (if applicable).
• Instructions for any trusts you want to set up.

We will send you the draft to review, so that you can request changes before the will is finalised.

Step 3: Reviewing & Making Amendments

Before signing, we review the will with you to make sure it fully reflects your wishes. You have the opportunity to:

• Make adjustments if your circumstances have changed.
• Clarify any points or legal terms.
• Confirm how your estate will be divided and what your executors will be responsible for.

The will is not signed until you are satisfied that it is accurate and complete.

Step 4: Signing & Witnessing

A will made in England and Wales is valid only if it is signed correctly:

• You must sign the will, or acknowledge your signature, in the presence of two witnesses who are both present at the same time.
• Each witness must then sign in your presence.
• A witness should not be a beneficiary, or the spouse or civil partner of a beneficiary. The will remains valid, but that person would lose their gift.

We will supervise the signing or, if you are unable to attend, guide you through the arrangements so that it is completed correctly.

Step 5: Secure Storage of Your Will

Once signed, your original will must be kept safe and be easy to locate. We offer:

• Secure storage of your original will.
• Copies for you and, if you wish, your executors.
• Registration of the will so that it can be traced when needed.

We will explain how your executors can obtain the original will when the time comes.

Updating Your Will

Your will should be reviewed after any major change in your life, such as:

• Marriage or civil partnership, which normally revokes an existing will.
• Divorce or dissolution, after which a former spouse or civil partner is treated as having died for the purposes of the will.
• The birth of a child or grandchild.
• A significant change in your finances or property, including moving home.

We can prepare a codicil for minor changes, or a new will where the changes are more substantial.

How Much Does a Will Cost?

Our fees depend on your circumstances. We will confirm the cost in writing before any work begins. Please call us on 01482 228808 to discuss what you need.

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