Rising number of people dying without a Will in the UK

In 2025, reports commissioned largely by HM Courts and Tribunal Service revealed a growing number of people are dying without making a Will. Many are also failing to use the services of Will making solicitors in North Wales.

This in turn, has led to a rise of intestacy cases. Some figures estimate that as many as six out of 10 people do not currently have a Will in the United Kingdom. Despite this high figure, it is also known that most of those who do not have a Will also know the importance of this document – despite not having one.

Over 51,000 intestacy administration letters were issued in 2024 – a significant rise from previous years. This means that more people have had to appeal to a court of law to deal with their loved one’s estate when they have died. Recent high profile cases like the death of Liam Payne from One Direction have highlighted the problems of someone dying without a Will and the repercussions of these issues.

Wills solicitors in North Wales have emphasised the importance of making a Will or updating old ones if someone’s circumstances have changed. Without a Will, the deceased’s family could wait up to nine weeks for any response to their letters of administration, which again is a longer timeframe than previous years.

Call Bennett Smith Solicitors today to arrange a consultation and get your Will in place without delay.