How to Find a Will Solicitor: Expert Guidance for Every Type of Estate

Creating a legally valid will helps protect your estate and ensures your loved ones are cared for according to your wishes. This guide covers what will solicitors do, where to find one near you, fee expectations, and how to prepare for your consultation.

The Role of a Will Solicitor

A will solicitor is a legal expert who helps you draft a will that accurately reflects your intentions while remaining compliant with the law. They begin by assessing your overall situation—this includes property ownership, savings, investments, outstanding debts, dependants, and family dynamics. Using this information, they craft a will that outlines how your assets should be distributed, identifies your chosen executors, and appoints guardians for underage children if needed.

Importantly, a solicitor ensures that your will follows the UK's inheritance laws, meets mental capacity requirements, and includes the correct witnessing procedures. These legal checks help reduce the chances of disputes or challenges. Many solicitors also recommend reviewing and updating your will periodically, especially after life changes such as marriage, separation, new children, or property purchases.

How to Find a Local Will Solicitor

There are three main ways to find an experienced solicitor who specialises in wills and estate planning:

• Online Legal Listings: Trusted platforms allow you to browse professionals by location and expertise. Many include verified client testimonials, specialties, and regulatory credentials. Look under categories like “wills” or “probate,” and double-check their licensing with official bodies.

• Personal Recommendations: Ask family members, friends, accountants, or financial planners for referrals. Those who’ve gone through the process can share insights into how responsive, trustworthy, and easy to understand their solicitor was.

• Law Society Directory: The Law Society’s solicitor search tool lets you find accredited professionals by postcode and practice area. All listed solicitors meet national standards, giving you peace of mind when selecting someone qualified.

Fee Structures and What to Expect

Solicitor fees are typically based on the complexity of your estate and the level of service provided:

• Straightforward Wills: If your estate involves a simple division of assets and no complex trusts or international holdings, many solicitors offer fixed rates. These often include the drafting process, witnessing coordination, and secure storage.

• Complex Arrangements: Estates that involve multiple properties, business interests, or custom trust structures will usually require more time and specialist knowledge. In such cases, fees may be calculated hourly.

• Additional Services: Some firms bundle related services such as power of attorney documents or future will reviews into a single package. It’s wise to ask for a detailed breakdown of all costs before committing, so there are no unexpected charges later.

Traits to Look for in a Solicitor

Selecting a solicitor is about more than just finding the lowest price. Consider the following qualities to ensure you choose the right partner:

• Expertise in estate planning, inheritance law, and probate

• Membership in reputable organisations like STEP or The Law Society’s Private Client Section

• Clear, jargon-free communication about legal matters

• Transparent billing policies and no surprise charges

• Willingness to offer long-term support and periodic review reminders

You’ll need to discuss personal and financial matters openly, so choose someone you feel at ease with. Trust and clear communication are essential for a successful outcome.

Five Steps to Prepare for Writing Your Will

1. Organise Your Finances – Gather documents for all financial accounts, property deeds, pensions, and outstanding debts. This ensures your solicitor has a complete understanding of your estate.

2. Name Your Beneficiaries – Decide who should receive your assets, including specific gifts and general distributions. Also think about who will inherit any remaining items once specific bequests are fulfilled.

3. Appoint Guardians – If you have young children, choose one or more guardians who would be willing to care for them long-term. Discuss your decision with them ahead of time.

4. Select Executors – Identify individuals or professionals who will manage your estate. You may want to appoint both a relative and a solicitor to ensure emotional and legal responsibilities are handled smoothly.

5. Plan for Updates – Revisit your will after any major life changes to keep it accurate and enforceable. A will should evolve alongside your circumstances.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I write a will without a solicitor?
While DIY kits are available, they carry significant risks. Even minor oversights—like failing to have the document properly witnessed—can render the entire will invalid. Working with a solicitor helps ensure the legal structure is sound and your wishes are upheld.

What’s the turnaround time for a will?
For simple estates, a solicitor can typically prepare a will within a few working days once all required information is provided. More complex situations involving trusts or foreign assets may take a few weeks.

What happens if I don’t make a will?
If you die intestate, your assets will be distributed according to default legal rules. These prioritise spouses, civil partners, and direct descendants, which may not align with your preferences or include close friends or charities.

Final Remarks

Writing a will is one of the most important legal decisions you’ll make. A skilled solicitor ensures the document is properly structured, meets all legal requirements, and reflects your values. By doing some preparation ahead of time and choosing an experienced, approachable professional, you’ll not only safeguard your assets—you’ll also provide clarity and comfort for your loved ones during a difficult time.

References

https://www.lawsociety.org.uk

https://www.trustpilot.com

https://www.citizensadvice.org.uk