Who Can Offer Will Writing?

Anyone is able to offer a Will writing service as unfortunately there is no sector-specific regulation that covers Will writing.

Will writing is not classed as a “reserved legal activity” so it can be undertaken by individuals who are unregulated and lack the necessary knowledge and expertise.

Therefore, you can find companies offering you free Will packages to entice you to buy their products, or you can simply buy a Will package from the Post Office or some local shops.

A great number of people have used a Will writing company (often offering Wills for a cheaper price) to prepare their Will or have made ‘DIY Wills’ or had Wills prepared by unregulated bodies which are often littered with legal errors or simply do not reflect their wishes.

Sometimes these Wills cannot be easily rectified if the person making the Will has passed away before it could be re-written, which often makes the administration of the estate more complicated. On occasions, a Will writing company will have closed or gone into administration, leaving their clients with no recourse.

Will Writing – What To Be Aware Of

Clients need to be aware of companies promising that they can protect all their assets from care fees, subsequent marriages or money grabbing relatives by placing the assets in trust during their lifetime.

If you are tempted, please ensure that you find out all the facts before signing up. It is surprising how many unknowing clients have given their house away and paid thousands for the privilege!

It would be far better to contact a reputable law firm, like Timms, to prepare your Will as we are strictly regulated and have the required expertise to give full advice in relation to your Will.

This is not to say that all Will writers are rogue. However, before using any Will provider, you should check that they are registered with a regulated voluntary body. This would include the Society of Will Writers or the Institute of Professional Will writers. Most importantly, you should check that the company has professional indemnity insurance in place, just in case things do go wrong.

How Can Timms Help...

If you have any concerns, or if you would like information regarding Wills then please contact me at s.hilliard@timms-law.com or on 01332 364436.

Alternatively, visit the Wills and Probate section of our website.