Frequently Asked Questions.
Answered, plainly.
Answers to the questions I hear most often
How long does the process take?
I prepare a draft within 2 working days, ready for your approval. You then have 14 days to review and decide whether to proceed. Once you confirm, we arrange for your documents to be properly signed and witnessed. The whole process is usually done within a week or two once you approve the draft.
Can I change my will after it's signed?
Yes. You can make changes by either creating a Codicil (an amendment) or preparing a new will. The new will automatically revokes any previous one. Note: if you get married, your will is automatically revoked under English law, so you'd need to make a new one.
What if I live in Scotland?
Scottish succession law is different from England and Wales. I currently serve England and Wales only, but if you're in Scotland, I'd recommend speaking with a solicitor familiar with Scottish law. The differences are significant enough that you need someone who specializes in your jurisdiction.
Why don't I need a high-street solicitor?
Many high-street firms operate on high-pressure sales models with significant overhead costs. They push add-ons you don't need and charge premium prices for standard documents. For straightforward wills, LPAs, and trusts, you don't need that complexity. You need clear advice, fixed pricing, and someone who listens. That's what I do, without the overhead or sales pressure.
Can I do it myself? What are the risks?
You can attempt to draft your own will, but the risks are real. DIY wills often fail because of missing formalities, unclear wording, or ambiguous instructions. When something is wrong, it can lead to expensive probate disputes, family disagreements, and years of uncertainty. From £79 for a single will or £129 for mirror wills, the cost of a professionally prepared will is tiny compared to the potential cost of getting it wrong. See our blog for real examples of where DIY wills go wrong.
What happens if I die without a will?
If you die intestate (without a will), the law decides who gets what. Your estate is distributed according to a fixed formula that probably doesn't match your wishes. Your family could face lengthy and expensive legal proceedings, and people you care about may get nothing.
What's the difference between the two types of LPA?
Property & Financial Affairs LPA covers money, bank accounts, property, and investments. Health & Welfare LPA covers medical decisions, care arrangements, and personal welfare choices. You need both to have complete protection. Many people only think about one—having both means you're fully covered.
When does an LPA come into effect?
That's your choice. You can register it immediately so your attorney can use it with your permission now (useful for elderly clients or if you're about to travel). Or you can register it only to come into effect if/when you lose capacity. Either way, once it's registered with the Office of the Public Guardian, it's legally valid and your attorney can act on it according to your instructions.
How much does it cost if I need the Court of Protection?
The application fee alone is £408, and in year one you'll typically pay £1,000–£2,000+ in supervision costs, with ongoing annual fees. This is why an LPA is such good value — from £300 for both LPAs for one person, you're avoiding this entirely. If you have no LPA and lose capacity, your family will face these costs.
Do I really need a trust?
Not everyone does. A simple will and LPAs are sufficient for most people. A trust becomes relevant if you have a vulnerable beneficiary, significant assets, blended family complexity, or concerns about care costs. Have a conversation with me about your specific situation—I'll give you honest advice on whether a trust makes sense for you.
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