DIY Wills vs. Professional Solicitors: What’s the Better Way to Write a Will?
Writing a will is essential for safeguarding your assets and securing your family's future. But should you write your own will, or hire a solicitor to do it for you? This article breaks down the pros and cons of both options so you can make an informed decision based on your needs and circumstances.
Writing a will is essential for safeguarding your assets and securing your family's future. But should you write your own will, or hire a solicitor to do it for you? This article breaks down the pros and cons of both options so you can make an informed decision based on your needs and circumstances.
What Does It Mean to Write Your Own Will?
A DIY will typically refers to a document created without professional legal help. This could be:
- A handwritten will (known as a holographic will)
- A template from a will-writing website
- A printed form from a stationery shop
These options appeal to individuals seeking a low-cost, quick solution. However, there are several important limitations that may not be obvious at first glance.
Benefits and Risks of DIY Wills
Advantages:
- Low cost – Most DIY templates cost under £50 or are even free.
- Speed – You can create a basic will in a few hours.
- Privacy – You don’t need to disclose personal details to a third party.
Disadvantages:
- Legal mistakes – Missing signatures, unclear wording, or improper witnessing can make the will invalid.
- No tax planning – DIY wills rarely account for inheritance tax or other financial implications.
- No legal protection – If your estate is contested, the DIY will may not hold up in court.
- Lack of personalisation – Templates can’t accommodate complex family situations, business assets, or specific trust structures.
Even a small technical error, like an incorrect date or unsigned amendment, could lead to costly disputes or a court ruling that distributes your estate differently than you intended.
Why Choose a Will Writing Solicitor?
A professional solicitor ensures that every aspect of your will is legally compliant, tailored to your wishes, and designed to protect your loved ones in the long run.
Advantages:
- Expertise – Solicitors understand the legal framework, including inheritance tax, executorship, and mental capacity law.
- Customisation – They can include special clauses for children, property overseas, business shares, or blended families.
- Future-proofing – Your solicitor will remind you when to update your will after life changes like marriage, divorce, or property purchases.
- Dispute prevention – A properly drafted will is harder to contest in court.
Considerations:
- Cost – Fees typically range from £150 to £500 for a simple will, and more for complex arrangements.
- Appointment time – You’ll need to set aside time for consultations and review meetings.
However, these investments often pay off by avoiding legal complications and family disputes after your death.
Key Differences at a Glance
| Feature | DIY Will | Solicitor-Drafted Will |
| Initial Cost | £0–£50 | £150–£500+ |
| Ease of Use | Quick, but requires caution | Guided by a professional |
| Legal Validity Risk | High if done incorrectly | Very low |
| Tax Planning | Not included | Often included |
| Custom Clauses | Limited or none | Fully customisable |
| Support for Updates | Self-managed | Reminders & reviews available |
| Risk of Disputes | Higher | Lower |
Who Might a DIY Will Work For?
A DIY will might be suitable if:
- Your estate is very small and straightforward
- You have no dependants or property
- You fully understand UK inheritance laws
- You are confident in writing clearly and legally
But even in such cases, professional review is strongly recommended.
What Happens When Things Go Wrong?
In the UK, poorly written wills lead to thousands of probate disputes each year. These often result in:
- Delayed estate distribution
- Significant court and solicitor fees for heirs
- Family breakdowns and stress
Without a valid will, your estate may be divided under the Rules of Intestacy, which often exclude unmarried partners, stepchildren, or charities.
Final Thoughts
While a DIY will might seem like a convenient choice, it carries hidden risks that could cost your loved ones time, money, and emotional strain. A solicitor-drafted will provides peace of mind, legal certainty, and flexibility to evolve with your life circumstances.
If your estate is more than minimal or your family situation is complex, the safest and most responsible option is to consult a qualified will writing solicitor.