The Importance of Writing a Will

Anna Kmiec
Jun 16
5 min read

Updated: Jul 19

Why Do So Many People Avoid Writing a Will?

Let’s start by acknowledging the emotional elephant in the room: mortality. It’s natural to feel uneasy when thinking about what will happen after we’re gone. But avoiding the topic doesn’t make it go away. It simply means you leave your loved ones to deal with uncertainty, legal hurdles, and often unnecessary stress.

Common Reasons People Delay Writing a Will:

“I’m too young.” – Many people believe Wills are only for retirees or the elderly. In reality, anyone over 18 with assets or dependents should have one.
“I don’t have enough money to make it worthwhile.” – Wills aren’t just for millionaires. Your possessions, bank accounts, pension, and even your digital assets matter.
“It’s too complicated.” – With the right support, it doesn’t have to be.
“I’ll get to it eventually.” – Sadly, life is unpredictable. Accidents and illnesses can happen at any time.

What Happens If You Don’t Have a Will?

When someone dies without a Will – known legally as dying intestate – their estate is distributed according to the UK’s intestacy laws. These laws are strict and often outdated, based solely on legal definitions of family rather than personal relationships or intentions.

Here’s what’s at stake if you don’t have a Will:

1. No Say in Who Inherits What

Without a Will, your estate is divided according to intestacy rules. This means:

Unmarried partners receive nothing, no matter how long you’ve been together.
Stepchildren are not legally recognised unless adopted.
Friends, carers, or other important people in your life are excluded completely.
Estranged or distant relatives you haven’t seen in years could end up with your estate.

2. Family Disputes and Uncertainty

Without clear instructions, grief can quickly turn into confusion, disagreements, or even costly legal battles. A well-drafted Will avoids misunderstandings, sets expectations, and gives your loved ones clarity during a difficult time.

3. Delays and Additional Costs

Without a Will, the probate process becomes longer and more expensive. The court must appoint an administrator, leading to delays, frustration, and unnecessary legal fees.

4. No Guardians for Children

If you have children under 18, a Will is the only way to legally name guardians. Without it, the court decides who will raise your children. Even if your intentions seem obvious, it’s not guaranteed they’ll be carried out.

5. No Protection for Vulnerable Loved Ones

Wills can include trusts or special provisions for loved ones with disabilities, financial vulnerabilities, or addiction issues. Without a Will, they might receive a lump sum outright, jeopardising their benefits or wellbeing.

6. Tax Inefficiency

A professionally drafted Will can help minimise your Inheritance Tax liability. Without one, your estate could be subject to more tax than necessary. This means less goes to your loved ones and more to HMRC.

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Life Case Scenario: Sarah & Mark – 15 Years Together, But No Will

Let’s take Sarah’s story:

Sarah and Mark had been partners for 15 years. They owned a home together, raised a son, and lived as a family in every way except legally – they weren’t married.

When Mark died suddenly from a heart condition at just 48, Sarah was left devastated. Her grief quickly compounded by legal chaos: Mark hadn’t written a Will.

Because they weren’t legally married, Sarah had no automatic rights to Mark’s estate. Everything went to his next of kin – distant relatives he hadn’t seen in decades. Sarah had to fight through court just to stay in their shared home, leaving their teenage son’s future uncertain.

This experience was financially draining and emotionally exhausting. It was all something that could have been completely avoided with a simple Will.

Life Case Scenario: David’s Dilemma – The Digital Legacy

Now consider David, a successful freelance designer in his early 40s. He wasn’t married, didn’t own a house, and believed he didn’t have "much to leave behind."

David actually had:

Over £80,000 in various savings and pension pots
A substantial portfolio of digital assets, including crypto investments, online business earnings, and valuable intellectual property
A beloved cat named Milo

When David died in a motorbike accident, his family discovered he had no Will. His assets were frozen for months. No one knew the passwords to his online accounts or how to access his crypto wallet. His elderly mother – the person he would have wanted to inherit everything – had to navigate probate courts without guidance. Meanwhile, his cat was rehomed by a rescue center, not knowing David had a friend lined up to care for Milo.

This story reminds us that modern estates aren’t just about bricks and mortar – they include digital footprints, pets, and personal wishes that only a Will can protect.

Why Writing a Will Isn’t as Difficult as You Think

At Citywide Wills, we’ve helped thousands of individuals and families get their affairs in order – and we’ve heard it all. Our job is to make the process simple, compassionate, and tailored to your needs.

Here’s how we help:

✔️ Clear, jargon-free guidance – We explain everything in plain English, without legal jargon.

✔️ Flexible appointments – We offer home visits, phone consultations, or online sessions to fit around your schedule.

✔️ Fixed, transparent pricing – No hidden costs. No surprises.

✔️ Experienced Will Writers who care – You’re not just another client. We take the time to understand your wishes and values.

We know everyone’s situation is different. Whether you’re a young professional, a parent, a retiree, or somewhere in between – we ensure your Will reflects you.

What Can You Include in Your Will?

A Will is a deeply personal document. Here’s what you can specify:

Beneficiaries – Who will inherit your estate
Executors – Who you trust to carry out your wishes
Guardians – Who will care for your children (or pets)
Gifts – Specific items or sums of money for individuals or charities
Funeral wishes – Whether you want to be buried or cremated, and any special instructions
Trusts – To protect assets for vulnerable loved ones or minor children
Business interests – Including succession plans for family businesses or partnerships
Digital assets – Including how to access and manage online accounts or cryptocurrencies

why should I write a Will — No Will? Your pets might be rehomed by a rescue center if there is no clear provision for their care.

How Often Should You Update Your Will?

Writing a Will isn’t a one-time event. Life changes – and so should your Will. We recommend reviewing it every 3–5 years, or after major life events:

Marriage, divorce, or new partnership
Birth or adoption of children or grandchildren
Moving house or buying property
Changes to your financial situation
Death of a beneficiary or executor
Inheriting money or assets
Changes to tax laws

We offer Will reviews to ensure your wishes are always current.

Common Misconceptions – Debunked

Let’s clear up a few misunderstandings:

“If I die without a Will, everything automatically goes to my spouse.” Not always. If you have children, your spouse may have to share your estate.
“My partner and I live together, so they’ll be protected.” Not unless you’re married or in a civil partnership. Unmarried partners have no automatic rights.
“I’ve told my family what I want.” Verbal instructions have no legal standing. Only a written, valid Will is legally binding.
“I’ve already written a Will – that’s enough.” If it’s outdated or poorly written, it might not work as intended. Regular reviews are key.

Peace of Mind Starts Today

Writing a Will is more than just a legal exercise. It’s a thoughtful act of love and responsibility. It ensures that your loved ones are protected, your wishes respected, and your legacy preserved. And with Citywide Wills, it’s easier than you ever imagined.

We’re not here to pressure you. We’re here to help – with empathy, experience, and a genuine commitment to making things simple.