Mistakes on Wills ‘could lead to legal difficulties’

Posted 17/08/2010

Using qualified solicitors when making Wills could be a better option than trying to do it yourself.

This is according to Emma Simon of the Telegraph, who warned that Will-writing “can be complicated and any mistakes can lead to legal difficulties”.

She explained Wills should be properly signed and witnessed and stressed it is not a good idea to ask beneficiaries to help with drawing up the document, as it may be challenged after death.

It was recommended that anyone having a Will made should provide unambiguous instructions, using both versions of a person’s name – for example, Catherine and Katie – where they are known as something different than what is on their birth certificate.

“Review your Will regularly. If circumstances change, you will need to alter it,” Ms Simon concluded.

Earlier this month, BBC News stressed the difference between a Will-writing firm and a solicitor, pointing out that the latter will be covered by the law should anything go wrong.

Both face-to-face and online Will-writing services are available from Ashtons Legal.