Why Professional Wills Make a Difference
A recent story in the news has highlighted the very real risks of using low-cost, unregulated will writing services. A grieving woman now faces the potential loss of her home after her late partner used a £19.99 online will service – a decision that unknowingly handed control of his estate to a third-party company.
At Rogers & Norton, our Private Client team sees too many people misled by seemingly simple online options. The case of Wendy Roberts, who now owes nearly £10,000 in fees to an executor company she never agreed to deal with, is sadly not unique. This situation arose because the Will included hidden clauses appointing a corporate executor and charging significant fees, something her late partner likely never fully understood.
The unfortunate truth is Will writing is unregulated in England and Wales.
That means anyone can call themselves a “will writer” without any legal training or oversight. Many online services appear cheap upfront but can include small print that appoints themselves as executors, allowing them to charge hefty fees down the line, often when families are at their most vulnerable.
What can go wrong with DIY or low-cost wills?
- Hidden charges: Companies may appoint themselves as executors and charge large percentages of the estate.
- Poorly drafted documents: Legal errors can lead to delays, disputes or even render the will invalid.
- Lack of clarity: Ambiguous wording can create family conflict or unintended outcomes.
- No aftercare: A will should evolve with your life and be updated/reviewed every few years with marriages, children and property – but many cheap services don’t offer reviews or updates.
How We Can Help
At Rogers & Norton, our experienced Private Client solicitors offer professionally drafted wills tailored to your individual circumstances. We take the time to:
- Understand your wishes and family situation.
- Clearly explain the implications of executors and inheritance tax.
- Provide advice on safeguarding your assets and your loved ones.
- Ensure your will is legally valid and stored securely.
Contact Us
Completing our online Will questionnaire provides us with the basic information needed to prepare your Will and saves time at any meeting we have, when any outstanding issues or questions can be discussed. The form is completely confidential.
The online questionnaire may not be appropriate for everyone; if you wish to discuss your Will in person then please contact our team on 01603 666001 or email enquiries@rogers-norton.co.uk.
For more information on our legal services or to arrange an appointment with a member of our team, contact us at 01603 666001, email enquiries@rogers-norton.co.uk or complete the ‘Request a Consultation’ enquiry form on our website.
*This article is provided for general information purposes only and does not constitute legal or any other professional advice.