Compare-wills.co.uk Review

Based on looking at the website Compare-wills.co.uk, the service acts as a comparison tool for will writing services in the UK. While the concept of preparing a will is permissible and encouraged in Islam to ensure proper distribution of assets according to one’s wishes and Islamic inheritance laws, the platform itself raises several red flags that warrant caution.

Here’s an overall review summary:

• Purpose: Compares bespoke will writing providers to help users find competitive prices.
• Pricing: Claims to be “100% Free, No Obligation Quotes,” but notes that partners “may be charged for this product” after a free consultation.
• Transparency: Lacks clear information about the specific “bespoke providers” it compares, making it difficult to assess their legitimacy or adherence to ethical practices.
• Ethical Concerns (General): While wills are crucial, the focus on “saving up to 80% on costs” and “best price guarantee” without detailed quality or Sharia compliance checks on the partners is a concern. The website mentions “legally-binding document” but doesn’t explicitly address Islamic inheritance principles.
• Overall Recommendation: Caution is advised. The lack of transparency regarding partnered providers and the primary emphasis on cost savings over comprehensive, ethically sound solutions means users should conduct extensive independent research.

The platform positions itself as a cost-saving solution for drafting wills, which is an essential legal document for managing one’s estate after death. However, for a Muslim individual, the primary concern when preparing a will (or wasiyyah) is ensuring it aligns with Islamic inheritance laws. These laws are very specific and override personal preferences in many cases. The website’s general legal advice is not tailored to Islamic principles, and there’s no indication that its “bespoke providers” are equipped to handle Sharia-compliant wills. Furthermore, the disclaimer “We do not accept any responsibility for any advice given by our partners and will always suggest you carry out your own research before taking out any product” places a significant burden on the user, especially when dealing with such critical legal and spiritual matters. The lack of clarity on how they vet their “bespoke providers” and their sole focus on “best price” rather than quality or Sharia compliance is a significant drawback.

Here are some better alternatives for individuals seeking to prepare a will, especially those who wish to ensure Sharia compliance:

• Islamic Will Writing Services: Look for dedicated services that specialise in drafting Sharia-compliant wills. These services often have legal professionals who are also well-versed in Islamic jurisprudence.
  • Key Features: Ensures adherence to Quranic inheritance laws, provides guidance on specific bequests (up to one-third of the estate), includes provisions for guardianships and funeral arrangements according to Islamic rites.
  • Price: Varies significantly based on complexity, often ranging from £150 to £500+.
  • Pros: Guarantees Sharia compliance, offers peace of mind, expert guidance on complex family situations.
  • Cons: Can be more expensive than generic online will kits, requires detailed disclosure of family assets and relationships.
• Solicitors Specialising in Islamic Law: Engage with law firms that have specific departments or lawyers with expertise in Islamic family law and inheritance.
  • Key Features: Comprehensive legal advice, bespoke will drafting, estate planning tailored to both UK law and Sharia, probate services.
  • Price: Typically higher, ranging from £300 to £1000+ depending on the firm’s reputation and complexity.
  • Pros: Highest level of legal and Sharia compliance, personalised service, handles complex estates.
  • Cons: Most expensive option, may require in-person meetings.
• Online Will Kits (Reputable): For straightforward cases, some online platforms offer guided will writing. However, these should be used with extreme caution for Sharia-compliant wills, as they often lack the necessary customisation for Islamic inheritance rules.
  • Key Features: User-friendly interface, step-by-step guidance, digital storage options.
  • Price: Typically £50-£150.
  • Pros: Convenient, affordable for simple estates, quick to complete.
  • Cons: Not recommended for Sharia-compliant wills without independent expert review, lacks personalised advice, limited complexity.
• Citizens Advice Bureau: While not a will writing service, they offer free, impartial advice on wills and inheritance, which can be a good starting point for understanding basic requirements.
  • Key Features: Free, independent advice, general legal guidance.
  • Price: Free.
  • Pros: Accessible, reliable general information.
  • Cons: Does not draft wills, cannot advise on Sharia compliance directly, requires further action to prepare the will.
• Will Aid: A charity initiative where solicitors waive their fee for writing a basic will, asking clients to make a donation to charity instead.
  • Key Features: Professional will drafting, supports charitable causes.
  • Price: Donation-based (suggested £100 for a basic will, £180 for mirror wills).
  • Pros: Cost-effective, supports good causes, professionally prepared.
  • Cons: Limited availability (usually November), might not cater to complex Sharia-compliant wills without additional consultation.
• Age UK: Offers information and some free will writing services, often through partnerships with solicitors. Primarily focused on older individuals.
  • Key Features: Advice and resources for wills, often includes free will writing schemes.
  • Price: Often free through specific campaigns or partnerships.
  • Pros: Reputable charity, accessible information, potential for free will writing.
  • Cons: Focuses on older demographics, may not specifically cater to Sharia-compliant wills without external input.
• Law Society Find a Solicitor: This is the official professional body for solicitors in England and Wales. Their “Find a Solicitor” tool can help you locate solicitors in your area who specialise in wills, trusts, and probate. You can filter by specialism, and then contact firms directly to inquire about their experience with Sharia-compliant wills.
  • Key Features: Direct access to qualified solicitors, ability to search by specialism and location, ensures professional standards.
  • Price: Varies by solicitor; direct consultation required for quotes.
  • Pros: High level of professional expertise, regulated body, allows for direct vetting of solicitors for Sharia compliance.
  • Cons: Requires individual outreach and vetting, pricing can vary significantly.

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Compare-wills.co.uk Review & First Look

Upon initial examination, Compare-wills.co.uk presents itself as a straightforward solution for individuals looking to find competitive prices for will writing services in the UK. The website’s homepage is relatively clean, focusing on a clear value proposition: “Save Up To 80% On Your Will Writing Costs” and “Use Our Free Comparison Tool To Find The Best Will Writing Costs Available To You.” This immediate focus on cost savings is a significant draw for many users, but it also raises questions about the depth of the service and the quality of the “bespoke providers” being compared.

Initial Impressions and User Interface

The website’s design is functional rather than flashy. It emphasises ease of use with a three-step process:

• Step 1: Complete a short enquiry form.
• Step 2: Speak to a partner to discuss your situation.
• Step 3: Partners take your will instructions and produce the will.

This streamlined approach is designed to minimise user effort, which can be appealing. However, the lack of immediate detail about who these “partners” are or how they are vetted is a notable omission. The overall impression is one of a lead-generation site rather than a direct service provider or a transparent comparison engine.

Transparency and Credibility Indicators

For a service dealing with critical legal documents, transparency is paramount. Compare-wills.co.uk claims to be “100% Free, No Obligation Quotes,” which is a strong selling point. However, a crucial disclaimer at the bottom of the page states: “Compare Wills partners all offer a free Will Consultation. If after the appointment you decide to go ahead with a product offered by our partner you may be charged for this product.” This clarifies that the consultation is free, but the will writing service itself is not. This distinction, while legally sound, could be perceived as less transparent by users expecting the entire comparison process to lead to a no-cost outcome.

Furthermore, the site states: “We do not accept any responsibility for any advice given by our partners and will always suggest you carry out your own research before taking out any product.” This disclaimer, common for lead generation platforms, significantly shifts the burden of due diligence onto the user, which is a critical point for a service dealing with sensitive legal matters like wills. Beever.co.uk Review

Compare-wills.co.uk Cons

While Compare-wills.co.uk aims to simplify the search for will writing services, several significant drawbacks and areas of concern emerge, especially for those seeking comprehensive and ethically sound solutions. The focus appears heavily skewed towards cost, potentially overlooking crucial aspects of quality, bespoke needs, and particularly, Sharia compliance for Muslim users.

Lack of Transparency Regarding Partners

One of the most glaring cons is the complete absence of information about the “bespoke providers” that Compare-wills.co.uk claims to compare. Users are asked to submit their personal details without any insight into:

• Who are these partners? Are they solicitors, professional will writers, or other entities?
• What are their qualifications? Are they regulated by a professional body like the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA) or the Institute of Professional Willwriters (IPW)?
• What is their track record? Are there reviews or testimonials available for these specific partners?
• What are their specialisations? Do any of them have expertise in specific areas like complex estates, trusts, or, crucially, Islamic inheritance law?

Without this vital information, users are essentially submitting their details blindly, trusting that Compare-wills.co.uk is connecting them with reputable and suitable professionals. This opaque process undermines confidence, especially when dealing with a legal document as significant as a will.

Overemphasis on Cost Over Quality and Compliance

The primary selling proposition of Compare-wills.co.uk is “Save Up To 80% On Your Will Writing Costs” and “Best Price Guarantee.” While cost savings are appealing, focusing almost exclusively on price can lead to compromises in other critical areas:

• Quality of Service: Lower prices might sometimes correlate with less comprehensive advice, rushed processes, or less experienced professionals. A poorly drafted will can lead to significant issues and disputes after death, potentially invalidating wishes or incurring substantial legal fees for resolution.
• Bespoke Needs: A will is a highly personal document. Generic, cost-driven solutions may not adequately address complex family structures, international assets, business interests, or specific charitable bequests. For Muslims, the lack of explicit Sharia compliance services among these “bespoke providers” is a major concern, as an Islamic will must adhere to specific inheritance rules.
• Lack of Sharia Compliance Guarantee: The website makes no mention of Sharia-compliant wills or partners who specialise in Islamic inheritance law. For a Muslim, a will that does not adhere to Sharia principles can lead to spiritual and familial distress, as the distribution of assets post-death is a matter of religious obligation. Without this crucial specialisation, the service is inadequate for this demographic.

Limited Accountability and Disclaimer Burden

The disclaimer “We do not accept any responsibility for any advice given by our partners and will always suggest you carry out your own research before taking out any product” is a significant red flag. While standard for comparison sites, for a legal service like will writing, it places a heavy burden on the user. It implies that: Gemmawent.co.uk Review

• No Vetting Assurance: Compare-wills.co.uk does not explicitly vouch for the quality or suitability of the advice provided by its partners.
• User Due Diligence Required: Users are solely responsible for verifying the credentials, experience, and ethical practices of the partners they are connected with. This defeats part of the purpose of a comparison service, which should ideally pre-vet providers to a certain extent.
• Potential for Mismatch: Without clear criteria for matching users with partners beyond simple cost comparison, there’s a risk of being connected with a provider ill-equipped to handle specific needs, particularly complex or Sharia-compliant wills.

No User Reviews or Testimonials for the Comparison Service Itself

The website features general information about wills but conspicuously lacks testimonials or reviews specifically about the Compare-wills.co.uk service itself. There are no insights into:

• User Satisfaction: Do users find the comparison process easy and beneficial?
• Quality of Referrals: Are the referred partners consistently reliable and professional?
• Savings Realised: Do users truly achieve the “up to 80%” savings advertised?

This absence of direct feedback on the comparison service itself makes it difficult for potential users to gauge its effectiveness and trustworthiness.

Limited Scope of Comparison Beyond Price

While the site states it compares “bespoke providers,” the core comparison metric highlighted is price. There’s no indication of how it compares other crucial factors such as:

• Service Level: Does it compare full-service will writing versus basic document preparation?
• Speed of Service: How quickly do different partners complete the process?
• Customer Support: What level of support can be expected from the partners?
• Specialisations: Does it match users with partners based on specific legal needs (e.g., trusts, probate, Sharia law)?

Without a broader range of comparison criteria, the service may only offer a partial picture, potentially guiding users solely on cost rather than overall value and suitability.

Compare-wills.co.uk Alternatives

Given the significant drawbacks and the crucial need for Sharia-compliant will writing services for Muslim individuals, exploring robust and transparent alternatives is paramount. These options prioritise ethical considerations, expert guidance, and proven track records over mere cost savings. 5sfootball.co.uk Review

Dedicated Islamic Will Writing Services

For Muslims, ensuring a will adheres to Islamic inheritance law (Fara’id) is not just a preference but a religious obligation. Dedicated Islamic will writing services are specifically designed for this purpose.

• Islamic Wills UK
  • Key Features: Specialises exclusively in Sharia-compliant wills. Offers different packages (e.g., Simple, Standard, Complex). Provides guidance on specific bequests (up to one-third of the estate for non-heirs). Ensures correct distribution of the remaining two-thirds according to Fara’id. Often includes provisions for guardianships for minor children and funeral arrangements according to Islamic rites.
  • Pros: Guaranteed Sharia compliance, experienced professionals in both UK law and Islamic jurisprudence, peace of mind regarding religious obligations, often provide clear explanation of Islamic inheritance rules.
  • Cons: Can be more expensive than generic online will kits, requires detailed disclosure of family assets and relationships, may involve multiple consultations.
• National Zakat Foundation (NZF) Will Service
  • Key Features: A charitable organisation offering support for Muslims, including guidance on Islamic wills. They often partner with solicitors who are experts in Islamic law. Focus on ensuring wills are legally binding in the UK and Sharia-compliant.
  • Pros: Reputable charity, reliable legal partners, supports charitable causes, clear focus on Islamic principles.
  • Cons: May be more advice-focused, actual drafting might be outsourced to partner solicitors, which may have associated fees.

General Solicitors with Islamic Law Expertise

Many established law firms in the UK have specialist departments or individual solicitors with expertise in Islamic family law, including wills and inheritance.

• Irwin Mitchell LLP
  • Key Features: A large, reputable law firm with a dedicated Islamic Wills and Estate Planning team. They provide comprehensive legal advice on drafting wills that are both UK legally valid and Sharia-compliant. They handle complex estates, trusts, and international assets.
  • Pros: High level of professional expertise, regulated by the SRA, comprehensive service, can handle very complex cases, offers tailored advice.
  • Cons: Generally more expensive, may involve lengthy processes due to thoroughness.
• Taylor Rose MW
  • Key Features: Provides Islamic will drafting services, focusing on adherence to Sharia while ensuring UK legal validity. They offer guidance on various scenarios, including complex family situations and specific bequests.
  • Pros: Specialist team, comprehensive advice, regulated legal firm, good balance of expertise and accessibility.
  • Cons: Pricing can vary, may not be as widely available in all regions of the UK as larger firms.

Online Will Services (with caution for Sharia compliance)

For individuals with very straightforward circumstances who may not need complex Sharia guidance, certain online platforms offer user-friendly will writing. However, it is crucial to understand that these often do not account for Islamic inheritance rules and may require independent review by an Islamic scholar or a solicitor with Sharia expertise.

• Farewill
  • Key Features: User-friendly online will writing platform. Offers online chat support and phone assistance. Can be updated for free for life. Donates a portion of fees to charity.
  • Pros: Affordable (starting from £90 for a single will), convenient, good customer support, includes free updates.
  • Cons: Does not inherently support Sharia-compliant wills, requires users to input specific Islamic provisions themselves (if possible), may not be suitable for complex Islamic inheritance distributions.
• Which? Wills
  • Key Features: Backed by the consumer champion Which?, offering online will writing services often provided by partner solicitors. Aims for clarity and reliability.
  • Pros: Trusted brand, offers various options (online, phone, in-person), relatively affordable for basic wills.
  • Cons: Not designed for Sharia compliance, users would need to ensure their specific Islamic provisions are correctly integrated and legally valid, which may be challenging without expert guidance.

Professional Will Writers (Independent)

Many independent professional will writers operate across the UK. It’s essential to choose one who is a member of a recognised body and, ideally, has specific experience with Islamic wills.

• The Society of Will Writers (SWW)
  • Key Features: Professional body for will writers. Offers a directory to find qualified members in your area. Members adhere to a code of conduct and are typically insured.
  • Pros: Can find local professionals, members are regulated to an extent, often more affordable than solicitors for straightforward wills.
  • Cons: Not all members will have expertise in Islamic law; users need to explicitly ask about this specialisation. The level of legal oversight is different from that of solicitors.

When selecting any alternative, particularly for a Muslim will, the absolute priority must be the solicitor’s or will writer’s proven expertise in both UK inheritance law and Islamic inheritance law. Always request testimonials, case studies, or clear explanations of how they ensure Sharia compliance. Don’t compromise on expertise for cost savings when it comes to such a critical document. Ghassans.co.uk Review

How to Cancel Compare-wills.co.uk Subscription

Based on the information available on the Compare-wills.co.uk website, there is no mention of a “subscription” service in the traditional sense that users would need to cancel. The site appears to function purely as a lead generation and comparison tool.

No Direct Subscription Model

The website states: “100% Free, No Obligation Quotes” and “Compare Wills partners all offer a free Will Consultation. If after the appointment you decide to go ahead with a product offered by our partner you may be charged for this product.” This indicates that Compare-wills.co.uk itself does not charge users for its comparison service or for providing quotes. Instead, the payment happens directly between the user and the “bespoke provider” they choose to proceed with after the initial consultation.

Therefore, you wouldn’t typically have a “subscription” to cancel directly with Compare-wills.co.uk. Your interaction with them is primarily to receive initial quotes or referrals.

Managing Partner Engagements

If you have engaged with one of the “bespoke providers” referred by Compare-wills.co.uk and signed up for their will writing service, any cancellation would need to be handled directly with that specific partner company.

• Review Your Contract: The first step is to carefully review any contract or agreement you signed with the will writing partner. This document should outline their cancellation policy, refund terms, and the process for terminating their services.
• Contact the Partner Directly: Reach out to the will writing company using the contact details provided in your agreement. Clearly state your intention to cancel and follow their prescribed cancellation procedure.
• Be Aware of Charges: Depending on how far along the will writing process you are, the partner company may levy charges for work already completed. Ensure you understand any potential fees before cancelling.

Stopping Unwanted Contact

If you submitted an enquiry form to Compare-wills.co.uk and are now receiving unwanted calls or emails from their partners, you can: Dclighting.co.uk Review

• Request to be Removed: Contact Compare-wills.co.uk directly via their provided email address: [email protected]. Politely request that your details be removed from their database and that you no longer wish to receive communications or referrals.
• Use Data Protection Rights: Under GDPR (General Data Protection Regulation) in the UK, you have the right to request access to your personal data and to have it erased. You can cite your “right to erasure” if you wish for them to delete your data entirely.
• Block Contacts: As a last resort, if unwanted communications persist, you can block the phone numbers or email addresses of the specific partners contacting you.

In summary, there’s no “Compare-wills.co.uk subscription” to cancel. Any cancellation procedures would apply to the service you have directly contracted with one of their referred will writing partners.

Compare-wills.co.uk Pricing

Based on the information provided on their homepage, Compare-wills.co.uk operates on a model that positions itself as a free service for the user, at least for the initial comparison and referral stage. This is a key part of their value proposition.

The “Free” Model Explained

The website prominently displays:

• “100% Free, No Obligation Quotes”: This indicates that submitting an enquiry form and receiving initial comparisons or consultations with their partners will not cost you anything upfront.
• “Save Up To 80% On Your Will Writing Costs”: This suggests the benefit of using their service is finding lower prices from their partners compared to what you might find elsewhere.

However, it is crucial to understand the nuance embedded in their disclaimers. As mentioned earlier, the site states: “Compare Wills partners all offer a free Will Consultation. If after the appointment you decide to go ahead with a product offered by our partner you may be charged for this product.”

What This Means for Your Pocket

This clarifies the pricing structure: Powerfulphotography.co.uk Review

1. Compare-wills.co.uk itself is free for finding initial quotes. You do not pay them for using their comparison tool or for them to connect you with providers.
2. The actual will writing service will incur a cost. The “bespoke providers” they connect you with will charge fees for drafting your will. The “free consultation” is essentially a sales pitch from their partners.
3. Pricing varies by partner. Since Compare-wills.co.uk connects you with different providers, the actual cost of your will would depend on the specific partner you choose and the complexity of your will. The website aims to help you find the “best rates,” but it doesn’t list actual prices for the will writing services themselves.

How Providers Likely Charge

While Compare-wills.co.uk doesn’t detail partner pricing, typical will writing costs in the UK can vary significantly:

• Basic Single Will: Often ranges from £70 to £200+ for a simple, non-complex will.
• Mirror Wills (for couples): Usually starts from £100 to £300+ for two wills that are largely identical.
• Complex Wills: Wills involving trusts, inheritance tax planning, foreign assets, or specific instructions (like Sharia compliance) can easily range from £300 to £1,000 or more, depending on the solicitor’s expertise and the complexity involved.

The “Save Up To 80%” claim suggests that by using their service, you might be connected with providers who offer significantly lower rates than, for example, traditional high-street solicitors, or that they have negotiated discounted rates. However, without knowing the baseline or the quality of the service for those lower rates, it’s hard to verify this claim.

Our Conclusion on Pricing

Compare-wills.co.uk essentially functions as a referral service funded by its partners (likely through commission or lead fees). For the end-user, the initial stage of comparison and consultation is free. The actual cost of the will will be determined by the chosen “bespoke provider.” Users should be prepared to discuss pricing directly with the referred partners during the free consultation and compare not just the cost, but also the scope of service, the provider’s credentials, and their ability to meet specific needs (e.g., Sharia compliance).

How to Make a Sharia-Compliant Will in the UK

Making a Sharia-compliant will, also known as an Islamic will or wasiyyah, in the UK involves navigating both British inheritance law and Islamic inheritance principles. It’s a critical document for Muslims to ensure their assets are distributed according to their religious obligations while also being legally enforceable under UK law.

Understanding the Importance of a Sharia-Compliant Will

In Islam, there are strict rules regarding the distribution of an estate after death, primarily derived from the Quran and Sunnah. These rules, known as Fara’id, dictate how much each rightful heir (e.g., spouse, children, parents) is entitled to. Valmarservices.co.uk Review

• Mandatory Heirs: A significant portion (typically two-thirds) of an estate must be distributed among specific Qur’anic heirs in fixed proportions.
• Bequests (Wasiyyah): Up to one-third of the estate can be bequeathed to non-heirs, charities, or specific causes. This allows for flexibility but must not infringe on the rights of the mandatory heirs.
• UK Intestacy Rules vs. Sharia: If a Muslim dies without a valid will in the UK, their estate will be distributed according to the UK’s intestacy rules. These rules are secular and do not recognise Islamic inheritance laws, which can lead to distributions that are not Sharia-compliant and may cause distress or dispute within the family.

Therefore, a properly drafted Islamic will is essential to override UK intestacy rules and ensure adherence to religious duties.

Key Steps to Making a Sharia-Compliant Will

1. Seek Expert Advice (Crucial):

   • Islamic Scholars: Consult with a knowledgeable Islamic scholar or jurist who can explain the Fara’id rules relevant to your specific family structure. They can help you understand the mandatory shares for your heirs.
   • Specialised Solicitors: This is the most critical step. Find a solicitor who is not only proficient in UK wills and probate law but also has demonstrable expertise in Islamic inheritance law. They will ensure your will is:
     • Legally valid under UK law.
     • Compliant with Sharia principles.
     • Clear and unambiguous to avoid future disputes.
     • Able to handle any complexities such as multiple marriages, adopted children (who don’t inherit in the same way as biological children in Sharia), or assets in different countries.
   • Why Not Generic Online Wills? Standard online will templates or generic will writers typically lack the intricate knowledge of Islamic inheritance law. Attempting to force Sharia provisions into a non-specialised template often results in an invalid or non-compliant will.

2. Gather Necessary Information:

   • Assets and Liabilities: Create a comprehensive list of all your assets (property, bank accounts, investments, businesses, personal belongings) and liabilities (debts, mortgages).
   • Family Structure: Detail your immediate family (spouse, children, parents) and any other potential beneficiaries you wish to include in your one-third bequest.
   • Funeral Wishes: Include instructions for your burial in accordance with Islamic rites (e.g., specific cemetery, quick burial).
   • Guardianship: If you have minor children, name guardians for them who will raise them according to Islamic values.
   • Executors: Appoint trustworthy individuals to be your executors who will carry out the terms of your will and manage your estate. Ideally, they should also understand Islamic principles or be willing to consult with scholars.

3. Drafting the Will:

   • Your specialised solicitor will draft the will, incorporating both UK legal requirements and Islamic principles.
   • Declaration of Faith (Shahada): Many Islamic wills begin with a declaration of faith to affirm the testator’s Muslim identity.
   • Debt Repayment: Emphasise the repayment of all debts before asset distribution, as this is a primary Islamic obligation.
   • One-Third Bequest: Clearly specify any bequests (up to one-third of your net estate after debts and funeral expenses) to non-heirs, charities, or other causes. This portion is flexible.
   • Residue Distribution: The remaining two-thirds (or more, if no specific bequests are made) must be distributed according to Fara’id. The solicitor will typically include a clause that dictates this distribution, often by referencing a schedule of heirs or by delegating the calculation to an Islamic scholar or a specialised solicitor post-mortem.
   • Language and Clarity: Ensure the language is clear, unambiguous, and legally robust to prevent disputes.

4. Signing and Witnessing: Amazinggirlfriday.co.uk Review

   • For a will to be legally valid in the UK, it must be:
     • In writing.
     • Signed by the testator (you).
     • Witnessed by two independent individuals who are over 18, of sound mind, and not beneficiaries in the will (nor spouses/civil partners of beneficiaries). They must sign in your presence and in each other’s presence.
   • Your solicitor will guide you through this formal process.

5. Storing Your Will:

   • Keep the original will in a safe, secure place. Your solicitor can often store it for you or advise on secure storage options (e.g., with the Probate Registry).
   • Inform your executors and a trusted family member where the will is stored.
   • Keep copies, but understand only the original is legally binding.

6. Regular Review:

   • Review your will periodically (e.g., every 3-5 years) or after significant life events (marriage, divorce, birth of children, acquisition/disposal of major assets, changes in UK law, or changes in your family’s circumstances).

By following these steps and prioritising expert advice from a solicitor specialising in Islamic wills, you can ensure your final wishes are honoured in accordance with both UK law and your Islamic faith.

FAQ

What is Compare-wills.co.uk?

Compare-wills.co.uk is a website that acts as a free comparison tool, connecting users in the UK with “bespoke providers” for will writing services, claiming to help users save money on costs.

Is Compare-wills.co.uk a free service?

Yes, the comparison tool and the initial consultation with their partner providers are advertised as “100% Free, No Obligation Quotes.” However, if you decide to proceed with a will writing service from a partner, you will be charged by that partner. Trailertrax.co.uk Review

How does Compare-wills.co.uk make money if it’s free for users?

Compare-wills.co.uk likely operates on a lead generation model, where they receive a commission or fee from their “bespoke providers” for each referral or successful client acquisition.

Are the “bespoke providers” on Compare-wills.co.uk regulated solicitors?

The website does not explicitly state that all their “bespoke providers” are regulated solicitors. It refers to them broadly as “bespoke providers,” which could include professional will writers who may or may not be regulated by legal bodies like the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA). Users should verify the credentials of any referred provider.

Does Compare-wills.co.uk offer Sharia-compliant will writing services?

No, Compare-wills.co.uk does not explicitly mention or guarantee Sharia-compliant will writing services. Its focus is on general UK will writing and cost savings. For a Sharia-compliant will, it is crucial to use a solicitor or service specialising in Islamic inheritance law.

Can I trust the “Best Price Guarantee” from Compare-wills.co.uk?

The “Best Price Guarantee” implies they will find you competitive rates, but without transparent pricing models from their partners upfront, it’s difficult to verify this claim. The actual price will depend on the complexity of your will and the specific partner you choose.

What information do I need to provide to Compare-wills.co.uk?

You typically need to complete a short enquiry form, which will likely ask for your contact details and basic information about your will writing needs. Neosis.co.uk Review

How quickly will I be contacted after using Compare-wills.co.uk?

The website states you will be “Contacted within 24 hours” after submitting your enquiry.

What happens if I die without a will in the UK?

If you die without a valid will (intestate) in the UK, your estate will be distributed according to strict intestacy rules set by UK law. These rules do not consider personal wishes or religious requirements like Islamic inheritance laws.

Is a joint will valid in the UK?

Yes, a joint will is one legal document that applies to two or more people, typically spouses or partners. For it to be valid, both parties must have expressly agreed to its terms, and it must be signed and witnessed correctly.

Do I need a solicitor to make a will?

For straightforward wills with minimal assets, you might be able to make one alone. However, for complex situations (e.g., children under 18, disabled adult children, large estates, specific bequests, foreign property, or Sharia compliance), it is strongly advised to use a solicitor to avoid pitfalls and ensure legal validity.

What are the formalities for a will to be legal in the UK?

A will must be in writing, signed by the testator (you), and your signature must be witnessed by at least two other people who are over 18, of sound mind, and not beneficiaries of the will. It should also be dated and name an executor. Fishingandrodlicence.co.uk Review

Can I change my will after it’s made?

Yes, you can make minor changes by adding a ‘codicil’ (a separate signed and witnessed document kept with the original will). For significant changes, it is highly recommended to draw up a new will, revoking any previous ones. Avoid writing directly on the original will, as this can invalidate it.

What happens to my will if I get divorced?

Your will remains valid upon divorce, but any provision in favour of your former spouse ceases to apply once the divorce is finalised. It is strongly advised to draw up a new will after divorce to reflect your updated wishes.

Can I include provisions for my pets in my will?

Yes, you can include provisions for your pets, though you cannot leave money directly to an animal. You can set up a simple trust for their support or leave a cash sum to a named individual or an appropriate animal charity (like Cinnamon Trust or RSPCA) to care for them.

What is the “Privacy Policy” mentioned on Compare-wills.co.uk?

The Privacy Policy outlines how Compare-wills.co.uk collects, uses, stores, and protects your personal data, and your rights regarding that data under UK data protection laws like GDPR. It’s important to review it to understand how your information is handled.

Does Compare-wills.co.uk store my will?

No, Compare-wills.co.uk is a comparison and referral service. They do not store your will. Your will would be prepared and stored by the “bespoke provider” you choose to work with, or you would be responsible for its storage. Aidemmedia.co.uk Review

What is the email contact for Compare-wills.co.uk?

The email contact for Compare-wills.co.uk is [email protected].

Does Compare-wills.co.uk have physical offices I can visit?

Based on the website information, Compare-wills.co.uk appears to be an online lead generation platform and does not list any physical offices for direct client visits.

How do I ensure my will is legally binding in the UK?

To ensure your will is legally binding in the UK, it must be in writing, signed by you, and witnessed by two independent adults who are not beneficiaries. It’s highly recommended to use a qualified solicitor to ensure all legal requirements are met and the will is clear and unambiguous.

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