DIY Will Writing vs a Solicitor: The Real Cost and Risk Comparison (2026)
A DIY will kit costs a fraction of a solicitor's fee, but errors can invalidate the whole document. A worked 2026 comparison of when each is genuinely appropriate.
What actually makes a will legally valid
Under English and Welsh law (Scotland and Northern Ireland have some differing rules), a will is valid if the testator is over 18, has the mental capacity to understand what they're signing, and the document is signed in the presence of two independent witnesses, who then sign it themselves in the testator's presence. Neither witness (nor their spouse) can be a beneficiary of the will β a common DIY error that can invalidate a specific gift, even if the rest of the will stands.
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- Witnessing errors β using a beneficiary or their spouse as a witness, which can invalidate that beneficiary's gift.
- Ambiguous or incomplete wording β failing to include a residuary clause (what happens to anything not specifically mentioned) is a common and costly gap.
- Not accounting for changed circumstances β divorce, remarriage, or the birth of children can automatically affect or revoke parts of a will if not updated.
- Failing to appoint a backup executor or guardian, leaving a gap if the first choice is unable or unwilling to act.
When a solicitor earns their fee
- Blended families β ensuring children from a previous relationship and a current spouse/partner are all provided for as intended, without unintended consequences.
- Business or agricultural assets β where specific reliefs and succession planning need careful structuring.
- Complex Inheritance Tax positions β larger estates, trusts, or gifting strategies benefit from professional advice integrated with the will.
- Disabled beneficiaries β a trust structured correctly can protect means-tested benefits eligibility, something a generic DIY kit won't address.
- Unmarried couples β cohabiting partners have no automatic inheritance rights under intestacy rules, making a properly drafted will particularly important.
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| Situation | Suggested route |
|---|---|
| Single/married, simple assets, clear beneficiaries | DIY will (kit or reputable online service) may be reasonable |
| Blended family, business assets, complex IHT, disabled beneficiary, unmarried couple | Solicitor strongly recommended |
| Any uncertainty about wording or legal effect | Solicitor, or at minimum professional review of a DIY draft |
Sources
- gov.uk: Make a will
- gov.uk: Rules if a person dies without a will (intestacy)
- Law Society: Finding a solicitor for wills
Frequently asked questions
Is a DIY will legally valid in the UK?
Yes, provided it meets the legal requirements for a valid will β properly signed by the testator and witnessed correctly by two independent witnesses present at the same time β a DIY will can be entirely legally valid, but errors in wording or execution are a common cause of wills being challenged or partially invalidated.
When is a solicitor strongly recommended over a DIY will?
A solicitor is strongly recommended for anyone with a blended family, business assets, property abroad, a complex Inheritance Tax position, a disabled beneficiary needing a trust, or any circumstance where a mistake could have significant financial or family consequences.
How much does a solicitor typically charge for a simple will?
Costs vary significantly by firm and complexity, but a straightforward single or mirror will from a solicitor is typically more expensive than a DIY kit or online will-writing service, while a complex will involving trusts or tax planning costs considerably more β always get a clear, written quote before instructing a solicitor.
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