Last Will and Testament

A Complete Guide to Last Will and Testament

A Last Will and Testament (commonly called a “Will”) is a legal document that sets out how your estate - money, property, possessions, and other assets - should be distributed after your death.

Having a Will ensures your wishes are respected, avoids unnecessary disputes, and provides peace of mind for your loved ones. Without one, the rules of intestacy decide who inherits, which may not reflect your wishes.

Contents

• What Is a Last Will and Testament?
• Why Is a Will Important?
• What Can Be Included in a Will?
• Who Can Make a Will?
• Legal Requirements for a Valid Will
• How to Create a Will
• How Much Does It Cost to Make a Will?
• Last Will and Testament Template (Example)
• Last Will and Testament FAQs
• Get Started with Your Will

What Is a Last Will and Testament?

A Will is a legal declaration of how you want your assets and affairs handled after death. It can cover distribution of property, guardianship of children, funeral wishes, and the appointment of executors who carry out your instructions.

Why Is a Will Important?

Without a Will:

• The rules of intestacy decide who inherits.
• Partners, stepchildren, or close friends may be excluded.
• Family disputes and legal costs are more likely.

With a Will:

• Your estate is distributed as you choose.
• You can appoint trusted executors.
• You can provide for dependants and protect vulnerable beneficiaries.
• You reduce uncertainty and stress for loved ones.

What Can Be Included in a Will?

• Distribution of money, property, and possessions
• Appointment of executors
• Guardianship for children under 18
• Funeral wishes
• Gifts to charities or causes
• Creation of trusts for dependants

Who Can Make a Will?

In England and Wales, you must:

• Be 18 or over
• Have mental capacity
• Make the Will voluntarily (free from pressure or undue influence)

Legal Requirements for a Valid Will

• Must be in writing
• Signed by the person making the Will (the testator)
• Witnessed by two independent adults present at the same time
• Witnesses cannot be beneficiaries

Failure to meet these rules can make the Will invalid.

How to Create a Will

1. List your assets and beneficiaries.

2. Choose executors to manage your estate.

3. Draft the Will using a solicitor, professional service, or a verified online template.

4. Sign and have the Will properly witnessed.

5. Store the Will safely and inform your executors.

How Much Does It Cost to Make a Will?

• Solicitor Drafted – £150–£600 depending on complexity.
• Specialist Will Writers – £50–£200.
• Online Templates – £20–£100 for solicitor-verified versions.

Last Will and Testament Template (Example)

Robot Lawyer provides a solicitor-verified Last Will and Testament template, compliant with the Wills Act 1837. It includes all required elements to ensure validity and can be tailored to your personal wishes.

Unlike generic kits, our template is professionally checked and kept up to date with legal requirements, giving you confidence that your estate will be handled as you intend.

Create a professional Last Will and Testament - with Robot Lawyer.
🗎 Create Document ➝

Last Will and Testament FAQs

Do I really need a Will?
Yes. Without one, the law decides who inherits under intestacy rules.

Can I write my own Will?
Yes, but mistakes can make it invalid. Using a solicitor-verified template reduces risks.

Can I update my Will?
Yes. You can update by creating a new Will or adding a codicil (formal amendment).

How often should I review my Will?
At least every 3–5 years, or after major life events like marriage, divorce, or having children.

Are DIY Wills valid?
They can be, but many are rejected due to errors. Proper witnessing is critical.

Can I leave my estate to anyone I choose?
Generally yes, but certain dependants (e.g. children, spouse) may have a claim under the Inheritance Act if left out.

Are electronic Wills valid in the UK?
No. A Will must be signed in writing and witnessed physically (though temporary COVID exceptions applied).

Why use Robot Lawyer’s Will template?
It is solicitor-verified, affordable, and ensures your wishes are legally protected.

Get Started with Your Will

Need a Last Will and Testament? Robot Lawyer makes it quick and affordable to create a legally valid Will.

How it works:

1. Select Create Document ➝

2. Answer a few quick questions about your estate and wishes.

3. Instantly receive a solicitor-verified Will template.

4. Sign and witness it correctly.

Create a professional Last Will and Testament - with Robot Lawyer.
🗎 Create Document ➝