Last Will and Testament

A Complete Guide to Last Will and Testament

A Last Will and Testament (commonly called a “Will”) outlines how your estate - including money, property, possessions and other assets - should be distributed after your death. It ensures your wishes are followed and helps prevent confusion or disputes among loved ones.

This guide explains what to include in a Will, who can make one, and the legal requirements for creating a valid document under UK law.

CONTENTS

What Is a Last Will and Testament?

A Last Will and Testament (commonly called a Will) is a legal document that sets out how your assets and personal affairs should be handled after your death. It allows you to name beneficiaries, appoint executors to manage your estate, specify guardians for any dependents, and include wishes about your funeral or other personal matters.

Wills are governed by the Wills Act 1837, which requires them to be made in writing, signed, and witnessed. The purpose is to ensure clarity, prevent disputes, and protect your intentions from being misinterpreted.

Without a valid Will, your estate is divided under the rules of intestacy - meaning the law decides who inherits your property. Creating a Will gives you control, ensuring your wishes are followed and your assets are distributed exactly as you intend.

Why Do You Need a Will?

While it’s not a legal requirement to have a Will, creating one is the only way to ensure your wishes are followed and your loved ones are protected from unnecessary complications.

A Will provides peace of mind, clarity and control over what happens to your estate after your death.

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.

Who Can Make a Will?

In England and Wales, anyone over 18 with mental capacity can make a Will, provided they do so voluntarily and understand its implications.

The law requires that the person making the Will - known as the testator - is acting freely, without pressure or influence from others.

You can legally make a Will if you:

• Are aged 18 or over.
• Have full mental capacity and understand the effect of the document.
• Are making the Will voluntarily, without undue pressure or influence.
• Sign it in writing before two independent witnesses.

What Can Be Included in a Will?

A Will can cover much more than just who inherits your money or property. It’s your opportunity to define how your affairs should be handled and who should take on key responsibilities.

A typical Will includes:

• 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

How to Create a Will

Creating a Last Will and Testament is a straightforward process, but it’s important to follow each step carefully to make sure your wishes are legally recognised.

The following steps outline how to prepare and finalise your Will:

1. List your assets and beneficiaries — note everything you own and decide who should receive it.

2. Choose executors - to manage your estate and carry out your instructions.

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

4. Sign the Will - and have it properly witnessed by two independent adults.

5. Store the original safely - and make sure your executors know where to find it.

Legal Requirements for a Valid Will

To be legally recognised in England and Wales, a Will must meet specific formalities set out in the Wills Act 1837. These ensure the document is genuine, witnessed properly and reflects the true wishes of the person making it.

A valid Will must:

• Be made in writing.
• Be signed by the person making the Will (the testator).
• Be witnessed by two independent adults who are present at the same time.
• Not be witnessed by anyone who is also a beneficiary.

Failure to meet these rules can make the Will invalid, meaning your estate could instead be distributed under intestacy laws.

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How Much Does It Cost to Make a Will?

The cost of creating a Will depends on how you choose to prepare it and the complexity of your personal circumstances.

While simple Wills can be affordable, more detailed arrangements - for example, involving property, business assets, or blended families - often cost more.

Typical options include:

• 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.

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.

Last Will and Testament

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