Cost of Living Crisis – Should I Save Money and Prepare My Own Will?

Although it may be tempting to make a Will using an online platform or without the direction of a legal professional, it is not recommended. Very few estates will be so straightforward that they do not require legal advice or guidance. Therefore, although the process could be costly, depending on the size of the Will, the investment is necessary to ensure that all of your wishes are met following your death. 

What type of solicitor deals with Wills? 

Private client solicitors can assist in drafting, amending and curating a Will. Discussing your options with a solicitor and carefully outlining your wishes will ensure that your wishes are met when you die. Your Will should contain the following: 

  • Your chosen executor 
  • Your appointed guardian for pets or children under 18 
  • List of your named beneficiaries and property 
  • Your basic personal information 
  • Some things should not be included in a Will, including unusual requests. Your Will should be kept as simple as possible to avoid confusion and remove the risk of it being contested in the future.   

Click here to find out the importance of a Will.  

How long does it take for a solicitor to sort out a Will? 

Depending on the size of your estate, the complexity of your assets, and what you have decided before your meeting with your solicitor, a typical Will drafting appointment takes between 30-40 minutes. 

Following this meeting, your solicitor will send you a copy of the draft to check that you are happy with the detail before having the Will signed by you in the presence of two witnesses. 

For a Will to be legally valid, it must be: 

  • Made by a person who is 18 or older 
  • Made voluntarily without pressure from another person 
  • Made by a person of sound mind 
  • In writing 

Wills Solicitors Near Me 

In the ongoing cost of living crisis, it is sensible to find ways to save money; however, it is not recommended to cut costs when creating your Will.  

If your Will is misinterpreted or you organise your estate insufficiently, your loved ones could pay more inheritance tax than necessary following your death. Therefore, speaking to an experienced and knowledgeable Wills solicitor is essential. 

Contact the lawyers at Jackson Longe on 0208 332 2069 or email info@jacksonlonge.com.