Government data shows 56% of UK adults have no will, but what most don’t realize is the hidden cost to families when estates go through probate without proper documentation.
Recent cases show families paying £20,000-£30,000 in legal fees just to access their inheritance – money that could have stayed in the family with proper planning.
Three Hidden Costs That Shock Families
- Probate Delays: Without a valid will, families wait 12-18 months to access any inheritance while courts sort out legal distribution.
- Legal Fees: Solicitor costs range from £2,000-£5,000 for simple cases, up to £20,000-£30,000 for complex estates – all deducted before families see anything.
- Lost Assets: Under intestacy rules, surviving partners don’t automatically inherit everything. The family home could be split between spouse and children, forcing property sales.
Why Most People Delay (And How That’s Changed)
Traditional will-writing meant expensive solicitor appointments and complex legal processes. But recent changes have made proper estate planning accessible to everyone.
What’s Changed in 2025?
Professional will-writing now starts from around £150 for straightforward cases, with many services offering:
- Home visits or video consultations
- Same-day document preparation
- Mirror wills for couples from £200
- Free reviews for life changes
For property owners and parents, the peace of mind is worth far more than the modest cost.
Is Your Situation Straightforward?
Most UK homeowners and parents need simple wills that:
- Leave everything to spouse, then children
- Name guardians for under-18s
- Appoint trusted executors
- Handle the family home properly
Quick Self-Assessment:
If you own property, have children, and want standard family inheritance, streamlined services can handle everything professionally for £150-£300.
Complex situations (business ownership, multiple marriages, international assets) need full solicitor involvement but represent less than 20% of cases.
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