Why DIY Wills Can Be a Costly Mistake

With the increasing accessibility of artificial intelligence and online legal templates, it’s no surprise that more people are turning to DIY options when drafting a will. At first glance, it seems convenient and cost-effective. But while a DIY will might appear to tick the boxes, it can actually lead to significant legal issues, disputes and expenses for your loved ones and eventually DIY wills can lead be a costly mistake.

A will is not just a legal document. It’s a vital safeguard for your assets, a statement of your intentions, and a way to protect the people and causes you care about most. Cutting corners with it can mean leaving those same people vulnerable.

The Risks of DIY Wills

Many people assume that writing a will is simple – a matter of stating who gets what. But in reality, a will must meet strict legal requirements to be valid and enforceable. Common risks of DIY wills include:

1. Legal Invalidity

Many DIY wills fail to meet the basic legal requirements. For example, they may not:

• Appoint an executor properly

• Cover the entire estate

• Be signed and witnessed correctly

If a will is invalid, the estate will be distributed according to intestacy laws – which may not reflect your wishes.

2. Ambiguous Language

Legal language must be clear and precise. DIY wills often include vague or conflicting terms, increasing the risk of disputes and costly litigation.

3. Lack of Customisation

Online templates don’t take into account blended families, estranged relatives or complex asset portfolios. These oversights can have long-term consequences.

4. Tax Implications

Without tailored advice, you may unknowingly increase the inheritance tax burden on your beneficiaries.

5. Increased Risk of Legal Challenges

DIY wills are more likely to be contested in court – whether due to unclear intentions, undue influence or errors. Disputes can result in lengthy, expensive and emotionally draining court proceedings.

Real-Life Consequences

One widely reported case involved a man who used a DIY will kit but failed to sign the document properly. After his death, the will was deemed invalid, and his estranged children – who he had intended to disinherit – inherited the estate under intestacy rules. The family’s legal battle lasted for years and cost thousands in fees – a situation that could have been easily avoided with proper legal advice.

Why Work with a Qualified Solicitor?

Engaging a solicitor to draft your will is an investment in clarity, security and peace of mind. At mlplaw, we work closely with clients to understand their circumstances and deliver bespoke legal solutions.

Here’s how working with a lawyer adds value:

• Tailored Legal Advice
  We ensure your will reflects your specific situation, family structure and future plans.

• Legal Compliance
  We handle all formalities to ensure your will is valid, properly signed and witnessed.

• Dispute Prevention
  A clear and professionally drafted will minimises the chance of misunderstandings or family conflict.

• Comprehensive Estate Planning
  Our experts go beyond simple will-writing. We help you structure your estate in a tax-efficient way, protect assets and establish trusts if needed.

• Secure Storage and Future Reviews
  We can store your will securely and offer regular reviews to ensure it stays up-to-date with changes in law or personal circumstances.

• Insurance and Accountability
  As a regulated firm, mlplaw carries professional indemnity insurance. This offers our clients an extra layer of protection and reassurance that their affairs are in safe hands.

Do It Right the First Time

If you’ve decided to make a will, make sure it’s done properly. Saving money with a DIY option can end up costing your loved ones dearly. Working with a qualified solicitor ensures your wishes are respected and your legacy protected.

With the increasing accessibility of artificial intelligence and online legal templates, it’s no surprise that more people are turning to DIY options when drafting a will. At first glance, it seems convenient and cost-effective. But while a DIY will might appear to tick the boxes, it can actually lead to significant legal issues, disputes and expenses for your loved ones.

A will is not just a legal document. It’s a vital safeguard for your assets, a statement of your intentions, and a way to protect the people and causes you care about most. Cutting corners with it can mean leaving those same people vulnerable.

The Risks of DIY Wills

Many people assume that writing a will is simple – a matter of stating who gets what. But in reality, a will must meet strict legal requirements to be valid and enforceable. Common risks of DIY wills include:

1. Legal Invalidity

Many DIY wills fail to meet the basic legal requirements. For example, they may not:

• Appoint an executor properly

• Cover the entire estate

• Be signed and witnessed correctly

If a will is invalid, the estate will be distributed according to intestacy laws – which may not reflect your wishes.

2. Ambiguous Language

Legal language must be clear and precise. DIY wills often include vague or conflicting terms, increasing the risk of disputes and costly litigation.

3. Lack of Customisation

Online templates don’t take into account blended families, estranged relatives or complex asset portfolios. These oversights can have long-term consequences.

4. Tax Implications

Without tailored advice, you may unknowingly increase the inheritance tax burden on your beneficiaries.

5. Increased Risk of Legal Challenges

DIY wills are more likely to be contested in court – whether due to unclear intentions, undue influence or errors. Disputes can result in lengthy, expensive and emotionally draining court proceedings.

Real-Life Consequences

One widely reported case involved a man who used a DIY will kit but failed to sign the document properly. After his death, the will was deemed invalid, and his estranged children – who he had intended to disinherit – inherited the estate under intestacy rules. The family’s legal battle lasted for years and cost thousands in fees – a situation that could have been easily avoided with proper legal advice.

Why Work with a Qualified Solicitor?

Engaging a solicitor to draft your will is an investment in clarity, security and peace of mind. At mlplaw, we work closely with clients to understand their circumstances and deliver bespoke legal solutions.

Here’s how working with a lawyer adds value:

• Tailored Legal Advice
  We ensure your will reflects your specific situation, family structure and future plans.

• Legal Compliance
  We handle all formalities to ensure your will is valid, properly signed and witnessed.

• Dispute Prevention
  A clear and professionally drafted will minimises the chance of misunderstandings or family conflict.

• Comprehensive Estate Planning
  Our experts go beyond simple will-writing. We help you structure your estate in a tax-efficient way, protect assets and establish trusts if needed.

• Secure Storage and Future Reviews
  We can store your will securely and offer regular reviews to ensure it stays up-to-date with changes in law or personal circumstances.

• Insurance and Accountability
  As a regulated firm, mlplaw carries professional indemnity insurance. This offers our clients an extra layer of protection and reassurance that their affairs are in safe hands.

Do It Right the First Time

If you’ve decided to make a will, make sure it’s done properly. Saving money with a DIY option can end up costing your loved ones dearly. A qualified solicitor ensures they respect your wishes and protect your legacy.

At mlplaw, our approachable and expert team are here to help you navigate the process with clarity and care.

Contact us today to speak with one of our private client solicitors and secure your peace of mind.