Do I Need a Solicitor to Make a Will? The Pros and Cons of Professional Will Writing

Many people wonder whether they really need a solicitor to make a Will—or if a DIY kit or online service will do the trick. With so many options available, it’s tempting to cut corners to save money. But is that the wisest choice when it comes to something as important as your legacy? In this blog, we explore whether you need a solicitor to make a Will in the UK, what the risks of going it alone are, and how professional advice can help ensure your wishes are properly protected.

Can I Write My Own Will in the UK or Do I Need a Solicitor to Make a Will?

Yes, legally, you can write your own Will. There’s no requirement to use a solicitor. However, your Will must meet certain legal requirements to be considered valid, including:

Being made by someone 18 or over
Being made voluntarily and without pressure
Being in writing and signed by you in the presence of two witnesses

If anything goes wrong in that process—or if the wording is vague—your Will might be challenged or even declared invalid.

DIY Wills and Online Will Kits: Are They Safe?

The rise of online Will templates has made it easier and cheaper to create Wills at home. However, they often lack customisation and legal oversight, which increases the risk of:

Incorrect wording that leads to disputes
Omissions of key clauses such as guardianship or trusts
Invalid witnessing procedures
Failure to consider tax implications or complex estates

While suitable for simple cases, DIY Wills can cause major issues in more complicated situations, including blended families, overseas assets, or vulnerable beneficiaries.

The Emotional and Financial Toll on Loved Ones

Dying intestate doesn’t just create confusion—it can lead to:

Family Disputes
If your wishes weren’t written down, surviving relatives may disagree over who should receive what, leading to arguments or legal battles.
Legal Delays
The process of applying for administration without a Will can take longer and be more complex, delaying access to much-needed funds.
Extra Costs
Without clear instructions, your estate may incur higher legal fees, taxes, or require court involvement to sort out inheritance claims.
Missed Opportunities to Protect Vulnerable People
If you have children under 18, the court may decide who cares for them. If you planned to leave money for someone with disabilities or in financial hardship, those plans will not be honoured without a Will.

When Should You Use a Solicitor?

A professional Will writer or solicitor ensures your Will is not only valid, but also tailored to your unique circumstances.
You should definitely consider professional help if:

You have children or dependants
You own property, especially overseas
You have business interests
You want to set up trusts or protect assets
You’re concerned about inheritance tax
You’ve had a divorce, remarriage, or complex family dynamics
You want to exclude someone from inheritance

Solicitors also store Wills securely and offer advice on Lasting Powers of Attorney, inheritance planning, and care costs.

Pros of Using a Solicitor to Make Your Will

What Can Go Wrong Without a Solicitor?

If you make your Will without guidance, common mistakes can include:

Naming executors incorrectly
Forgetting to revoke earlier Wills
Unclear instructions for guardianship or funeral wishes
Not accounting for all assets (digital, pensions, life insurance)
Using witnesses who inherit—making the Will invalid for them

Sadly, these mistakes often come to light only after you’re gone—when it’s too late to fix them.

What About “Will Writing Services” That Aren’t Solicitors?

There are independent Will writers in the UK who are not solicitors but are regulated by bodies such as the Society of Will Writers or the Institute of Professional Willwriters. These can be a good middle ground—but always check credentials and reviews.
At Callaghan Wills, we offer regulated, insured, and bespoke estate planning advice you can trust.

Next Steps: Getting Your Will Done Properly

Whether you’re making a Will for the first time or updating an old one, professional support makes the process:

Clear
Legally sound
Tailored to you and your family

Book a Free Will Review With Us

At Callaghan Wills & Estate Planning, we offer a free, no-obligation Will review to make sure your current Will is still working for you.

💡 We’ll help you spot gaps, identify risks, and recommend whether you need a simple update – or a more comprehensive plan involving Trusts or Lasting Power of Attorney.

✅ Peace of mind doesn’t cost a thing.

Adhering to UK Law for your Benefit

Our approach aligns with UK law to maximise your gain economically, all while upholding the highest standard.

We are committed to the highest levels of service and adhere to a strict Code of Conduct – your guarantee of a quality and a professional service.

All of our work is double-checked, and we also carry a substantial level of Professional Indemnity Insurance for your added peace of mind.

FREE Review of Your Existing Will

If you have any questions, book a free call with us and check out our Frequently Asked Questions – FAQ’s