Both solicitors and will writers can create legally valid wills. The main differences are cost, regulation, and expertise. For most people with straightforward estates, a regulated will writer offers excellent value. For complex situations, a solicitor may be better.
Quick Comparison
| Factor | Solicitor | Will Writer |
|---|---|---|
| Simple will cost | £150 - £300 | £99 - £200 |
| Mirror wills (couple) | £250 - £500 | £150 - £300 |
| Regulation | SRA (mandatory) | IPW/SWW (voluntary) |
| Insurance | Required by law | Depends on membership |
| Home visits | Usually extra cost | Often included |
| Complex estates | Best choice | May refer to solicitor |
Solicitors
What They Are
Qualified lawyers regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA). They've completed a law degree (or equivalent), legal practice course, and training contract.
Advantages
- Strict regulation: SRA oversight with complaints procedure
- Guaranteed insurance: Must have professional indemnity cover
- Legal expertise: Can handle complex legal issues
- Full service: Can help with related legal matters (property, probate, tax)
- Compensation scheme: Protection if firm goes bust
Disadvantages
- Higher cost: Typically 50-100% more than will writers
- Office-based: Usually need to visit their office
- May be overkill: For simple wills, you're paying for expertise you don't need
- Variable expertise: Not all solicitors specialise in wills
Will Writers
What They Are
Professionals who specialise in writing wills. Many are members of the Institute of Professional Willwriters (IPW), Society of Will Writers (SWW), or CILEX.
Advantages
- Lower cost: Typically 30-50% cheaper than solicitors
- Specialist focus: Wills are their core business
- Home visits: Often included in the price
- Flexible hours: Often available evenings/weekends
- Personal service: Usually deal with same person throughout
Disadvantages
- Voluntary regulation: Not all will writers are regulated
- Variable quality: Anyone can call themselves a will writer
- Limited scope: May not handle very complex situations
- No legal advice: Can't advise on other legal matters
How to Choose a Will Writer Safely
Since will writing isn't a protected profession, look for:
Membership of Professional Bodies
- IPW (Institute of Professional Willwriters): Requires exams, insurance, and code of practice
- SWW (Society of Will Writers): Similar standards
- CILEX: Chartered legal executives - regulated professionals
Professional Indemnity Insurance
Ask to see proof of insurance. This protects you if they make a mistake.
Clear Pricing
Get a written quote before proceeding. Avoid anyone who won't give clear pricing.
When to Use a Solicitor
- Complex estates (multiple properties, businesses, overseas assets)
- Potential for disputes or challenges
- Significant inheritance tax planning needed
- Trusts beyond standard property protection trusts
- Beneficiaries with special needs
- You want to disinherit someone
- Capacity concerns
When a Will Writer is Fine
- Straightforward estate (home, savings, personal possessions)
- Leaving everything to spouse/children
- No complex family situations
- Standard property protection trust
- No overseas assets
- No business interests
Questions to Ask Any Provider
- What professional body are you a member of?
- Do you have professional indemnity insurance?
- What's the total cost (including VAT and disbursements)?
- Will you come to my home?
- How long will it take?
- Do you offer storage?
- What happens if I need to make changes later?
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a will written by a will writer legally valid?
Yes. There's no legal requirement to use a solicitor. A properly drafted will from a will writer is just as valid.
What if the will writer makes a mistake?
If they're a member of IPW/SWW, they'll have insurance to cover mistakes. This is why choosing a regulated will writer matters.
Can a will writer give tax advice?
Basic guidance yes, but complex tax planning should involve a solicitor, accountant, or tax specialist.