Introduction
Writing a will is one of the most important steps you can take to safeguard your loved ones’ future. Unfortunately, many people avoid this responsibility because they believe it requires expensive legal services. While solicitors can provide valuable expertise, they are not always necessary for individuals with simple estates. A Legal Will Kit offers a practical, affordable, and reliable way to create a valid will—without spending hundreds of pounds in solicitor fees.
This article explains how a Will kit helps you avoid unnecessary costs, while still giving you peace of mind that your wishes will be legally recognised.
The High Cost of Solicitor-Drafted Wills
Solicitors in the UK typically charge between £200 and £500 for preparing a will, depending on complexity. For couples, this cost can double. Additional fees may apply if you need revisions or specialist advice about trusts, inheritance tax, or overseas assets.
While these services may be essential for people with complex financial situations, many individuals have straightforward estates. In such cases, paying solicitor fees may not be cost-effective. This is where a Legal Will Kit becomes a smarter alternative.
What Is a Legal Will Kit?
A Legal Will Kit is a do-it-yourself package designed to help you write a will without professional legal assistance. It generally includes:
- A legally compliant template tailored for UK law.
- Step-by-step instructions for completing each section.
- Guidance on how to sign and witness your will properly.
These kits are available as physical booklets, downloadable PDFs, or online platforms, making them accessible and affordable.
Why a Will Kit Is More Affordable Than a Solicitor
Choosing a Will kit over solicitor services can save you significant money. Here’s how:
- Lower upfront cost – Most kits cost between £20 and £50, compared to hundreds for a solicitor.
- No hourly fees – Solicitors often charge per consultation, but a kit is a one-time purchase.
- Do-it-yourself flexibility – You can complete the will at your own pace, without scheduling appointments.
- Free updates – Many kits allow you to amend or rewrite your will as needed, without paying extra.
Who Should Consider a Legal Will Kit?
A Legal Will Kit is ideal if you have a straightforward estate. For example:
- You want to leave your assets to your spouse, children, or close relatives.
- You own property or savings in the UK only.
- You don’t have complicated business assets, trusts, or international investments.
For more complex circumstances, professional legal advice may still be necessary. However, for most people, a Will kit provides a perfectly valid and cost-effective solution.
How to Use a Will Kit to Avoid Mistakes
While a Legal Will Kit is designed to simplify the process, it’s crucial to follow the instructions carefully. Here’s a step-by-step approach:
- Gather your details – List your assets, debts, and intended beneficiaries.
- Appoint executors – Choose one or more trusted people to carry out your wishes.
- Complete the template – Fill in the provided forms clearly and accurately.
- Sign and witness – Ensure two witnesses (who are not beneficiaries) sign the will in your presence.
- Store securely – Keep your will in a safe place, such as with your executor or a storage service.
By following these steps, you reduce the risk of errors that could otherwise require costly solicitor intervention later.
Benefits of Choosing a Legal Will Kit
Using a Will kit not only helps you avoid expensive legal fees but also provides additional benefits:
- Cost savings – A fraction of the price compared to solicitor services.
- Convenience – Complete your will at home without scheduling appointments.
- Clarity – Prevents confusion and disputes among family members.
- Control – Allows you to update your will whenever your circumstances change.
Comparing Legal Will Kits and Solicitor Services
To highlight the financial savings, here’s a comparison:
| Feature | Legal Will Kit | Solicitor Services |
| Cost | £20–£50 | £200–£500+ |
| Best For | Simple estates | Complex estates |
| Flexibility | Self-paced, anytime | Requires appointments |
| Updates | Low or no cost | Extra charges may apply |
As the table shows, a Legal Will Kit provides outstanding value for straightforward estates, helping you save money while still meeting legal requirements.
Avoiding Common Pitfalls with Will Kits
Although affordable, improper use of a Will kit can lead to complications. To ensure your will is valid, avoid these mistakes:
- Forgetting to update your will after life events like marriage or divorce.
- Choosing witnesses who are also beneficiaries.
- Using vague or unclear language in your instructions.
- Storing your will in an unsafe or inaccessible place.
By being diligent, you can enjoy the cost savings without compromising legal security.
When You Might Still Need a Solicitor
While a Legal Will Kit is an excellent alternative for many people, there are situations where professional legal advice is worth the cost:
- If you own property abroad.
- If you have significant business interests.
- If you want to set up trusts for children or vulnerable dependents.
- If you expect disputes among beneficiaries.
In these cases, solicitor fees may be unavoidable but necessary to prevent legal challenges.
The Role of a Post Office Will Kit
One of the most accessible options in the UK is the Post office Will kit. Available at local branches and online, it provides a budget-friendly, legally compliant template. For many, this is the simplest way to avoid solicitor fees while still preparing a valid will.
Final Thoughts
A Legal Will Kit is one of the most effective ways to avoid costly solicitor fees while ensuring your final wishes are respected. For those with straightforward estates, it offers affordability, convenience, and peace of mind.
By carefully completing and maintaining your Will kit, you can save hundreds of pounds in legal costs and still provide clear, legally valid instructions for your loved ones.