What a Will does
Your Will sets out who should administer your estate and who should inherit assets that pass under the Will. It can also deal with guardianship, specific gifts and what happens if a beneficiary dies before you.
Children under 18
Where appropriate, our Standard and Mirror Will fees include ordinary provisions for a child who may inherit before turning 18. There is no automatic additional charge simply because you have young children. We discuss who should administer any inheritance and when beneficiaries become entitled to it.
If you require bespoke trustee provisions or wish to explore an 18-to-25 trust, additional advice and drafting may be appropriate. These arrangements have different legal and potential tax consequences, and any additional fee is confirmed before work starts. See children's trust pricing guidance →
Core decisions to make
When a straightforward Will may be suitable
A standard Will can work well where the family circumstances and intended inheritance pattern are relatively straightforward and there is no need for a continuing trust over major assets.
When more detailed planning may be needed
- Children from previous relationships or a blended family.
- A wish to protect a defined share of a jointly owned home.
- Vulnerable or financially inexperienced beneficiaries.
- Business or agricultural interests.
- Potential Inheritance Tax exposure.
- Assets held in more than one jurisdiction.
Will signing matters
A Will must satisfy the formal requirements for execution. The signing process should therefore be treated as part of the legal document, not an administrative afterthought.
Frequently asked questions
What can a standard Will include?
A Will can appoint executors, name beneficiaries, include specific gifts, appoint guardians for minor children and direct how the residue of the estate should pass.
When is a standard Will not enough?
More detailed planning may be appropriate for blended families, business assets, vulnerable beneficiaries, substantial tax exposure or where a trust is needed to control how property or capital ultimately passes.
Can a Will be changed later?
Yes, provided the person still has the required testamentary capacity. A new Will is often the cleanest way to make substantial changes.
Tell us what you want to achieve
You do not need to know the name of the legal document or trust before speaking to us. Explain the family, property or planning issue and we can discuss the relevant options.