Can I write my own will or must I use a solicitor?

What the Law Says

The law sets out precise formalities that any will must meet to be valid in England and Wales. These rules apply whether you write the will yourself or use a solicitor.

Under the Wills Act 1837, a will is only valid if it satisfies several strict conditions. The most important are that it must be in writing, signed by the person making the will (the 'testator'), and witnessed correctly.

The testator must be at least 18 years old (with limited exceptions for soldiers on active service or mariners at sea), and must intend the document to be their will. They must also understand what they are doing and not be under undue influence.

Crucially, the signature must be made in the presence of two witnesses who are both present at the same time — and those witnesses must then sign the will in the testator’s presence.

Statutory Text

No will shall be valid unless it shall be in writing, and executed in manner hereinafter mentioned; that is to say, it shall be signed at the foot or end thereof by the testator, or by some other person in his presence and by his direction; and such signature shall be made or acknowledged by the testator in the presence of two or more witnesses present at the same time, and such witnesses shall attest and subscribe the will in the presence of the testator.

— Wills Act 1837, s. 9 — Execution of wills

Sources