When should I use a solicitor for a will instead of an online service?
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In short: Use a solicitor for trusts, Inheritance Tax planning, foreign or business assets, blended-family disputes, or excluding a dependant. For a simple England and Wales estate, a fixed-fee online will* is often enough if you sign it correctly.
Content updated:
GOV.UK explains you can make a will yourself; the risk is drafting and witnessing mistakes. Unregulated will-writing firms are usually cheaper than solicitors but may offer weaker redress if something goes wrong — check Institute of Professional Willwriters membership and professional indemnity if you go that route.
Choose a solicitor when you share a home with someone who is not your spouse or civil partner, want provision for a vulnerable dependant, have children from more than one relationship who may claim, live abroad or own overseas property, own a business, or expect a challenge. Those situations need tailored advice, not a questionnaire alone.
If none of those apply, SwiftWill* (from around £35 single / £55 mirror wills*, automated document preparation) is document-preparation software for straightforward estates — not a law firm. See also do you need a solicitor for a will*. Official: www.gov.uk/make-will
Primary source: gov.uk/make-will
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