Informal Wills may gain more recognition, according to updates

With new changes to Will-making in the UK pending, solicitors in Conwy are encouraging people to futureproof this essential document.

Although many of the upcoming proposals are designed to protect the testator and their families, it has also been recognised that more informal Wills might be recognised when appropriate.

There has been an increase in family disputes when someone has made their Will without the help of legal experts, resulting in unclear instructions and confusing gifting. There are occasions, however, when an informal Will has been made, or the wishes of the deceased have been written down but have not been verified or witnessed as per usual legal requirements.

Recommendations made by the Law Commission in 2025 could see the courts giving greater weight to instructions for the distribution of an estate written in a format not normally accepted, such as in a draft document. This in itself could create conflict, as it would be unclear if these were the real final wishes of the person who died.

It is worth noting that this would only be under exceptional circumstances and when there is no doubt about the intentions of the deceased. However, Wills solicitors in North Wales stress that to avoid any miscommunications, it is still essential to make a Will using expert legal advisors.

Take a moment to contact us at Bennett Smith Solicitors and arrange to speak to us about ensuring your Will meets the necessary legal requirements.