Can I Write My Own Will? Pros and Cons of DIY vs Professional Help

Introduction
Writing your own Will might seem simple — after all, it’s just a document stating who gets what, right? Many people consider DIY options to save money or avoid the perceived hassle of solicitors. While it is possible to create a Will yourself, there are significant risks and limitations.

In this post, we’ll explore the pros and cons of DIY Wills versus professional help, helping you decide which option is best for your circumstances.

Pros of Writing Your Own Will

1. Cost savings
   DIY Wills are often cheaper than hiring a solicitor or Will-writing service. For simple estates, this can be a tempting option.

2. Convenience
   You can write your Will from the comfort of your home, at your own pace, without needing appointments.

3. Immediate availability
   Online templates or software allow you to produce a Will quickly, especially useful if you need one urgently.

4. Privacy
   Handling your Will yourself keeps your personal details out of professional hands.

Cons of Writing Your Own Will

1. Risk of errors
   Even small mistakes — incorrect wording, missing signatures, or unclear instructions — can make a Will invalid or open to challenge.

2. Limited legal guidance
   DIY solutions don’t provide advice on complex situations such as trusts, blended families, business ownership, or tax planning.

3. Potential for disputes
   If a DIY Will is unclear, ambiguous, or fails to cover certain assets, it can cause confusion and conflict among beneficiaries.

4. Outdated laws or templates
   Using an old or poorly drafted template may not comply with current UK law, making your Will legally unenforceable.

When DIY Wills Might Be Suitable

• Simple estates: Single individuals or couples without children, property, or complex assets.

• Limited assets: Small savings, minimal property, and few personal possessions.

• No complex family arrangements: No blended families, guardianship issues, or business interests.

Even in these cases, it’s often advisable to double-check with a solicitor or professional service to ensure compliance with legal requirements.

Benefits of Professional Help

1. Legal expertise
   Solicitors or Will-writing services ensure your Will is legally valid and structured to reflect your wishes accurately.

2. Guidance for complex situations
   Professional help is particularly valuable if you have:

• Children from multiple relationships

• Business or property holdings

• Trusts or charitable donations

• Overseas assets

1. Peace of mind
   Knowing that your Will has been drafted or reviewed professionally provides confidence that it will stand up legally and reduce the likelihood of disputes.

2. Updates and reviews
   Many solicitors or services offer reviews or codicils for future life changes, helping you keep your Will current.

Practical Example
Sophie, a 40-year-old freelancer, initially used an online template to write her Will. She later realised her estate included multiple properties, pensions, and a blended family. By consulting a professional, she:

• Corrected ambiguities in asset distribution

• Added trusts for minor children

• Included guardianship provisions

• Reduced potential inheritance tax exposure

This example highlights that DIY may work for very simple estates, but professional guidance ensures security and peace of mind for more complex situations.

Tips for DIY Wills

• Use reputable templates or software: Only trust providers who comply with UK law.

• Follow signing and witnessing rules carefully: Two witnesses must watch you sign, and they cannot be beneficiaries.

• Keep your Will safe: Store in a secure location, and let trusted people know where it is.

• Review periodically: Life changes may require updates even for DIY Wills.

Conclusion
While DIY Wills can work for very straightforward estates, most people benefit from professional input to ensure legal validity and clarity. Protecting your loved ones and ensuring your wishes are followed is worth the investment of time and guidance.

Next Step: Download our Free Will Guide PDF for practical advice on creating a Will, whether DIY or professionally prepared, that protects your family and your assets.