Choosing the Right Will Solicitor: A Clear Guide to Estate Planning

Creating a will is essential to protect your estate and ensure your loved ones are looked after. This article explains how will solicitors help, how to find one near you, how fees are typically structured, and how to prepare for the process to avoid complications later.

What Exactly Does a Will Solicitor Do?

A will solicitor is a legal professional trained to turn your end-of-life instructions into a legally binding document. They start by learning about your assets, liabilities, family members, and any dependants. With this overview, the solicitor drafts a will that clearly outlines who inherits your wealth, names estate executors, and appoints guardians for underage children if needed.

In addition to drafting the document, the solicitor ensures that your will adheres to UK inheritance laws, meets mental capacity standards, and includes the correct witnessing procedures. These precautions reduce the risk of legal disputes later. Most solicitors also recommend reviewing your will regularly, especially after major events like marriage, divorce, childbirth, or acquiring new assets.

Finding a Will Solicitor in Your Area

You can find experienced solicitors through three main channels:

• Online Directories – Trustworthy legal directories list solicitors along with reviews, areas of expertise, and confirmation of professional qualifications. Use search filters like “wills” or “estate planning” to narrow your results, and check their accreditation with a relevant legal body.

• Referrals – Recommendations from people you trust—friends, family, accountants, or advisers—can point you toward professionals with proven reputations. Firsthand feedback is especially helpful in gauging communication and reliability.

• Law Society Website – The Law Society’s online search tool lets you find solicitors by location and area of practice. All members meet established legal and ethical standards, so you can search confidently.

How Will Solicitors Charge for Their Services

The cost of writing a will depends on its complexity and the solicitor’s experience:

• Simple Wills – Straightforward arrangements (such as dividing assets evenly between family members) are often charged at a fixed rate. This price typically includes the initial consultation, document drafting, witnessing support, and secure document storage.

• More Complicated Wills – If your will includes international property, trusts, or custom clauses, you’ll likely face higher costs. These arrangements usually require additional time and expertise, so some solicitors will charge by the hour.

• Optional Extras – Many solicitors offer bundled packages that include lasting power of attorney, future will reviews, or probate support. Always request a detailed, itemised quote before beginning, so you understand the full cost.

Qualities of a Reliable Will Solicitor

The right solicitor offers more than just technical knowledge. Look for someone who:

• Has a strong background in wills and estate law

• Belongs to respected organisations like STEP or The Law Society’s Private Client Section

• Communicates clearly without using overly technical legal language

• Provides transparent pricing with no surprise fees

• Offers follow-up reminders to review or update your will when needed

You should feel comfortable sharing personal and financial information honestly. A solicitor who listens closely and explains things clearly will help ensure your final wishes are accurately reflected.

Five Ways to Get Ready Before Writing Your Will

1. Collect Financial Records – Bring statements for your bank accounts, pensions, loans, insurance policies, and any investments. This gives your solicitor a full understanding of your financial position.

2. Choose Your Beneficiaries – Decide who will inherit each asset. Think about whether you want to leave specific items or gifts to individuals, and identify who should receive the remainder of your estate.

3. Assign Guardians – If you have children under 18, name trusted individuals who are prepared to take on the responsibility of raising them. Make sure you’ve discussed it with them beforehand.

4. Pick Your Executors – Appoint people to manage your estate after death. Many people choose a relative or friend, but you may also name a solicitor or financial professional to share the responsibility.

5. Plan to Review Your Will – As your life changes, so should your will. Major milestones such as a marriage, a divorce, or the birth of grandchildren are all good reasons to update your arrangements.

Common Questions

Can I write a will myself?
You can use templates or DIY kits, but these come with significant risks. Simple mistakes—like missing signatures—can make a will invalid. Hiring a solicitor greatly reduces this risk and helps protect your loved ones from potential legal complications.

How long does it take to create a will?
If your wishes are straightforward, a solicitor can often complete the process within a few days once you’ve supplied the required information. More complicated wills may take longer due to additional research or legal drafting.

What happens if there’s no will?
If you die without a will, your estate will be distributed according to UK intestacy laws. This may result in unintended beneficiaries and exclude non-relatives or charities you care about. A legally valid will prevents this and ensures your wishes are followed.

Conclusion

Working with an experienced will solicitor gives you peace of mind that your estate will be managed the way you intend. By preparing ahead of your appointment and choosing a solicitor who’s clear, responsive, and knowledgeable, you simplify the process and protect those you care about. With the right advice, you’ll create a lasting legal document that adapts with you as life changes.

References

https://www.lawsociety.org.uk

https://www.trustpilot.com

https://www.citizensadvice.org.uk