The Complete Guide to Writing a Will in the UK: What You Need to Know

Introduction: Why Writing a Will Matters

Writing a will may not be the most exciting task on your to-do list, but it’s one of the most important things you can do to protect your loved ones and your assets. Without a valid will in place, you lose control over what happens to your estate after you pass away. In the UK, this means your assets will be distributed according to the laws of intestacy—not necessarily in line with your wishes.

This guide from LCS Legal, your trusted will writing specialists, cover

s everything you need to know about how to write a will in the UK—from legal requirements to best practices and how our expert solicitors can help.

What Happens If You Die Without a Will in the UK?

If you die without a will—referred to legally as intestate—your estate will be managed under the UK’s intestacy rules. This can lead to a range of issues:

• Your spouse or civil partner may not inherit everything.

• Unmarried partners receive nothing, regardless of how long you've been together.

• The government may end up controlling how your estate is distributed.

• Disputes can arise among family members, especially in blended families.

Having a will ensures that you decide who inherits your money, property, possessions, and who will look after any minor children. It's not just about finances—it's about peace of mind and reducing stress for your family.

Who Needs a Will?

The short answer: everyone over the age of 18 who owns property, has children, or wants control over what happens to their assets.

You especially need a will if you:

• Are married or in a civil partnership

• Have children or stepchildren

• Own a home or any other assets

• Are divorced or separated

• Want to leave something to friends or charities

• Have specific funeral wishes

Legal Requirements for a Valid Will in the UK

To ensure your will is legally valid in the UK, it must meet the following criteria:

1. You must be at least 18 years old

2. The will must be made voluntarily

3. You must be of sound mind

4. It must be in writing

5. It must be signed by you in the presence of two witnesses

6. The witnesses must also sign the will in your presence
   

Note: Witnesses cannot be beneficiaries of the will—or married to beneficiaries.

Even one mistake can render your will invalid, so it’s strongly recommended to work with a professional solicitor like LCS Legal to avoid costly errors.

Key Components of a Will

Here’s what a comprehensive will should include:

• Your full name and address

• Revocation of previous wills (if any)

• Appointment of executors – The people who will carry out your wishes

• Beneficiaries – Who gets what (money, property, possessions)

• Guardians – Who will care for your children (if under 18)

• Funeral wishes – Optional, but helpful for family

• Signatures and witness details

Having these elements ensures your will is clear, enforceable, and fully aligned with your intentions.

Choosing an Executor: What You Need to Know

Your executor is legally responsible for carrying out the instructions in your will. They’ll deal with probate, settle debts, and distribute assets. You can appoint:

• A family member or close friend

• A solicitor or professional executor

• More than one executor (up to four)

LCS Legal can act as your professional executor to ensure everything is handled with legal precision and compassion.

Can You Write Your Own Will?

Technically, yes. But DIY wills often result in mistakes, unclear language, or improper signing—which can make them legally invalid. Common DIY pitfalls include:

• Misunderstanding legal terms

• Poor structure or omissions

• Invalid witness procedures

• No provision for changing circumstances (like divorce)

Working with an experienced will writing solicitor like LCS Legal removes the guesswork and gives you confidence that your wishes will be upheld.

Should You Use a Will Writing Service or a Solicitor?

While many online will writing services claim to offer quick and cheap options, they often lack the legal oversight needed to protect your estate properly.

Here’s why a regulated solicitor is the safer choice:

Feature	Online Will Service	Solicitor (like LCS Legal)
Legally trained staff	❌ Usually not	✅ Yes
Regulated & insured	❌ Rarely	✅ Always
Personalised advice	❌ Generic	✅ Tailored to you
Support with complex estates	❌ No	✅ Yes
Trusts, LPAs, and tax advice	❌ Limited	✅ Full services

At LCS Legal, our friendly team ensures your will is drafted to meet your needs and protect your family—all with a clear, fixed fee and no hidden charges.

When Should You Update Your Will?

Your will should be reviewed and updated when:

• You get married or divorced

• You have children or grandchildren

• You move home or acquire new assets

• An executor or beneficiary dies

• You simply change your mind

We recommend reviewing your will every 3–5 years, even if nothing major has changed. At LCS Legal, we offer review consultations to ensure your will is always up to date.

Can You Store Your Will at Home?

Yes, but we don’t recommend it. Wills can be lost, damaged, or tampered with. LCS Legal offers secure will storage to ensure your documents are safe and accessible when needed. We also notify your executors, so they know exactly where to find it when the time comes.

Why Choose LCS Legal for Will Writing in the UK?

• Experienced Solicitors – Specialist team focused on wills and estate planning

• Fixed-Fee Services – No hourly rates or hidden costs

• Free Home Visits – We come to you across London and surrounding areas

• Comprehensive Packages – Including Wills, LPAs, Trusts, and Probate

• Secure Will Storage – Keep your will safe and accessible

Our mission is to make legal planning clear, affordable, and stress-free. We treat every client with care, professionalism, and integrity.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: How much does it cost to make a will with a solicitor? A: At LCS Legal, we offer competitive fixed fees starting from £XXX. You’ll always know the full cost upfront.

Q: Can I change my will later? A: Yes. We can help you make amendments or create a new will whenever your circumstances change.

Q: Is a will legally binding? A: Yes—as long as it’s properly signed and witnessed in accordance with UK law.

Conclusion: Secure Your Legacy Today

Making a will isn't just about dividing assets—it's about protecting the people you love, preventing future legal battles, and having the peace of mind that your wishes will be respected. The earlier you create your will, the more control you retain over your future.

At LCS Legal, we make the process of writing your will straightforward, affordable, and completely tailored to you.

📞 Ready to write your will? Contact us today for a free consultation.

✅ Home visits available ✅ Fixed pricing ✅ Professional, regulated legal support

Need help with more than just a will? Explore our Estate Planning Packages or get in touch to discuss your unique needs.