28/10/2021
Recent research has shown that there is likely to be an increase in contested probate cases as the popularity of online Will writing surges.
It has been found that consumers often mistake whether their affairs are ‘simple’ or ‘complex’. Factors that determine this include marital status, children, assets, business ownership and overseas property, amongst other things. Many presume their affairs are ‘simple’ when the likelihood is that this is not the case. Most online wills are unsuitable for complicated circumstances, but 65% of consumers believe their Will writing is simple, have complex circumstances.
Online Will Writing Providers
Unfortunately, the Wills market remains alarmingly unregulated, meaning if something goes wrong, it also often goes unnoticed. This is partly due to a lack of consumer understanding alongside decreased cost in comparison to using an SRA approved Solicitor. Hypothetically, years down the line, when the Will comes into action, and there is an issue, the family of the person that made the Will would have no authority to complain to and no legal right to any compensation.
The research carried out by Funeral Solution Expert found that as many as 23% of the customers failed to either read or understand the terms and conditions, which state that many providers limit their liability to the price paid or more. Often, this information was hidden in the terms and conditions rather than being highlighted in the sales process.
How Can We Help?
Russell and Russell are experts in Will writing, probate and asset management. We’re accredited by the Law Society’s Wills and Inheritance Quality Scheme which sets the benchmark for best practice and transparency in the provision of wills and estate planning services, so you can be sure our work is done to the highest quality - avoiding the unclear and often untrustworthy method of online Will writing.
Learn more about Russell and Russell’s Will writing services today.
Alternatively, get in touch for expert and friendly wills and probate advice you can trust.
Please note that this article is meant as general guidance and not intended as legal or professional advice. Updates to the law may have changed since this article was published.