Legalwills.co.uk Review

Based on looking at the website, LegalWills.co.uk presents itself as a straightforward online platform designed to help individuals in the UK create legally binding Wills, Lasting Powers of Attorney, and other essential estate planning documents. While the concept of online will writing can be convenient, a strict review requires us to scrutinise its offerings against established best practices and Islamic ethical considerations.

Overall Review Summary:

• Ease of Use: Appears user-friendly, guiding users through a step-by-step process.
• Cost-Effectiveness: Generally more affordable than traditional solicitor services.
• Legal Validity: Claims to produce legally binding documents in the UK, but the nuances of specific situations can be complex.
• Customer Support: Information on direct, robust, and readily available personal legal advice is not prominently displayed, which is a significant consideration for complex cases.
• Islamic Compliance: Does not explicitly cater to Islamic inheritance laws, which require specific provisions for distribution of assets (Fara’id) and may necessitate expert guidance to ensure compliance.

While online services like LegalWills.co.uk offer an accessible entry point into estate planning, particularly for simpler cases, they often fall short when individual circumstances require nuanced legal interpretation or adherence to specific religious laws. For instance, the intricate rules of Islamic inheritance (Fara’id) are highly specific and cannot be adequately addressed by generic online templates. Ensuring that a Will aligns with both UK law and Islamic principles necessitates a deep understanding of both, which an automated service might not fully provide. Therefore, while LegalWills.co.uk might be a starting point for some, it is crucial to recognise its limitations, especially for those seeking to uphold their religious obligations.

Best Alternatives for Estate Planning and Ethical Services:

• Islamic Will UK Solicitors:
  • Key Features: Specialised legal advice ensuring Wills are compliant with both UK law and Sharia (Islamic law), covering intricate inheritance rules (Fara’id). Personalised service, drafting, and witnessing.
  • Average Price: Varies significantly depending on complexity, typically £300 – £1000+.
  • Pros: Guarantees Sharia compliance, expert legal advice, handles complex estates, provides peace of mind.
  • Cons: Higher cost than online services, requires direct engagement with a solicitor.
• Al-Wasiyyah (The Islamic Will Handbook):
  • Key Features: A comprehensive guide to understanding Islamic inheritance laws and drafting an Islamic Will. Provides templates and detailed explanations.
  • Average Price: £15 – £30 (for the book).
  • Pros: Excellent for self-education, helps in understanding the principles, provides a strong foundation before consulting a lawyer.
  • Cons: Not a legal service itself; still requires professional legal review to ensure UK legal validity.
• Islamic Inheritance Software:
  • Key Features: Tools designed to calculate inheritance shares according to Islamic law, helpful for understanding distribution before formalising a Will.
  • Average Price: £20 – £100 (one-time purchase or subscription).
  • Pros: Accurate calculation of shares, educational, aids in planning.
  • Cons: Not a substitute for legal advice, does not draft legally binding documents.
• Trust Deed Services (Ethical):
  • Key Features: Professional services for setting up ethical trusts that align with Islamic principles for charitable giving (waqf) or managing assets.
  • Average Price: Varies widely, can be substantial depending on the trust’s complexity.
  • Pros: Secure asset management, allows for charitable endowments, ethical investment options.
  • Cons: More complex and costly than a simple Will, requires ongoing management.
• Professional Notary Public Services UK:
  • Key Features: Notaries provide independent verification of legal documents, essential for international Wills or Powers of Attorney.
  • Average Price: £50 – £200 per document.
  • Pros: Adds a layer of authenticity and legal recognition, crucial for overseas assets.
  • Cons: Not a Will drafting service; only certifies existing documents.
• Personal Finance Planners (Fee-Only, Ethical):
  • Key Features: Professionals who offer financial planning services on a fee-only basis, avoiding commission-based products, and can advise on ethical investment strategies.
  • Average Price: Hourly rates typically £100 – £300, or project-based fees.
  • Pros: Comprehensive financial guidance, helps align assets with ethical principles, can coordinate with legal professionals.
  • Cons: Can be expensive, requires trust and transparency.
• Secure Document Storage Solutions:
  • Key Features: Services offering secure, professional storage for original Wills and other vital legal documents.
  • Average Price: £20 – £50 per year.
  • Pros: Protects documents from damage or loss, ensures easy access for executors.
  • Cons: An additional cost, not a Will drafting service.

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LegalWills.co.uk Review & First Look

LegalWills.co.uk positions itself as a streamlined digital solution for what can often be a daunting task: crafting a Will. The platform aims to demystify the process, offering a step-by-step guide that allows users to create legally binding documents from the comfort of their homes. This immediate accessibility and perceived simplicity are undoubtedly appealing, especially for those who find traditional legal services intimidating or prohibitively expensive. The website’s clean interface and clear call to action suggest an emphasis on user experience, promising to make the complex act of estate planning manageable for the average person.

The Appeal of Online Will Services

The primary draw of services like LegalWills.co.uk is the convenience factor. You can work on your Will anytime, anywhere, without needing to schedule appointments or travel. This flexibility aligns with modern lifestyles, where digital solutions are increasingly preferred for various administrative tasks. Furthermore, the cost-effectiveness is a significant selling point. Online Wills typically cost a fraction of what a solicitor might charge, making estate planning more accessible to a wider demographic. For instance, a basic Will through LegalWills.co.uk might cost around £39.95, whereas a solicitor could charge upwards of £200 for a straightforward Will. This price difference is a major incentive for many.

Initial Impressions and User Interface

Upon first glance, LegalWills.co.uk presents a professional and easy-to-navigate website. The layout is intuitive, guiding visitors through their options for Wills, Lasting Powers of Attorney, and other documents. The site highlights security and legal validity, attempting to instil confidence in potential users. The use of clear language, rather than dense legal jargon, is also a positive aspect, making the process less intimidating. However, despite the polished appearance, the critical question remains: can an automated online service truly address the multifaceted needs of estate planning, particularly when religious considerations like Islamic inheritance laws are paramount?

LegalWills.co.uk Pros & Cons

When evaluating any service, especially one as critical as Will writing, a balanced look at its advantages and disadvantages is essential. LegalWills.co.uk, like all online platforms, comes with its own set of trade-offs. While it democratises access to legal documentation, its generic nature can be a significant drawback for individuals with complex circumstances or specific religious requirements.

Advantages of Using LegalWills.co.uk

• Affordability: This is arguably the biggest win for LegalWills.co.uk. As mentioned, the cost is significantly lower than traditional solicitors. This makes estate planning accessible to those on tighter budgets. According to the LegalWills.co.uk website, a single Will costs £39.95, while a Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA) is £99.95. For comparison, the average cost for a simple Will from a solicitor in the UK can range from £150 to £300, and an LPA can be £200 to £500 per document.
• Convenience and Speed: The ability to create a Will from home, at any time, is incredibly convenient. The process is self-paced, allowing users to complete their documents without external pressure. The platform claims a Will can be completed in as little as 20 minutes, though thorough review is recommended.
• User-Friendly Interface: The step-by-step guidance system simplifies what could otherwise be a confusing process. This user-centric design reduces the barrier to entry for individuals unfamiliar with legal terminology.
• Accessibility: For those in remote areas or with mobility issues, online services offer a practical alternative to visiting a solicitor’s office.

Disadvantages of Using LegalWills.co.uk

• Lack of Personalised Legal Advice: This is a major drawback. Online services cannot provide the bespoke advice that a qualified solicitor offers. Complex family structures, international assets, business interests, or potential challenges to the Will are areas where generic templates fall short. A solicitor can anticipate issues and draft clauses to prevent future disputes, something an automated system cannot do. For instance, if you have a child with special needs, specific trust provisions might be required, which an online service might not adequately cover.
• Inability to Address Nuanced Situations: Life is rarely simple, and Wills often need to reflect this complexity. Online platforms struggle with situations like blended families, estranged relatives, or specific charitable bequests that require intricate legal drafting. In 2022, nearly 1 in 3 families in the UK were blended families, highlighting the need for tailored legal solutions.
• No Explicit Islamic Law Compliance: Crucially, LegalWills.co.uk does not explicitly cater to Islamic inheritance laws (Fara’id). Islamic law dictates specific shares for heirs, and a standard UK Will, without careful customisation by an expert in Islamic law, will not suffice. For example, Islamic law generally limits the portion of an estate that can be bequeathed outside of fixed heirs to one-third, and certain heirs (like non-Muslim spouses) may not inherit at all. An online form cannot automatically incorporate these intricate rules. A 2021 study by the Muslim Council of Britain indicated that over 70% of British Muslims do not have an Islamic Will, often due to lack of awareness or accessible tailored services.
• Potential for Errors Without Review: While the system guides you, it relies on your accurate input and understanding. Misinterpretations of questions or incorrect entries can lead to invalid clauses or unintended consequences. Without legal review, these errors may only come to light after the Will is executed, potentially causing significant distress and legal battles for your heirs.
• Witnessing Requirements: While LegalWills.co.uk helps draft the document, the responsibility for properly witnessing and signing the Will lies entirely with the user. UK law requires a Will to be signed in the presence of two independent witnesses who are over 18 and are not beneficiaries. Failure to adhere strictly to these rules can invalidate the Will, and the online service cannot oversee this critical final step.

LegalWills.co.uk Pricing

Understanding the cost structure of LegalWills.co.uk is key to assessing its value proposition. The platform offers various pricing tiers, primarily focusing on individual documents and packages, which are designed to be more economical than engaging traditional solicitors. Hfhpetcare.co.uk Review

Overview of LegalWills.co.uk Costs

LegalWills.co.uk operates on a clear, upfront pricing model. This transparency is a strong point, as users know exactly what they are paying for before committing.

• Single Will: Typically priced around £39.95. This provides one legally binding Will.
• Mirror Wills: For couples, a pair of “mirror Wills” (where each partner’s Will mirrors the other’s, leaving assets to the surviving partner and then to children) is often offered at a discounted rate, sometimes around £59.95.
• Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA): An LPA, which allows you to appoint someone to make decisions on your behalf if you lose mental capacity, is generally priced around £99.95 per document. There are two types: Property & Financial Affairs LPA, and Health & Welfare LPA.
• ExecutorGuide™: A service designed to assist executors with their duties, priced around £19.95.
• Vault Service: This is a secure online storage service for your documents and vital information, often included for a set period with document purchases or available as a subscription, usually around £29.95 per year.

These prices are significantly lower than the average solicitor fees in the UK. For instance, the Law Society of England and Wales does not set fixed fees, but anecdotal evidence suggests that a basic single Will from a high street solicitor can range from £150 to £300, and a pair of mirror Wills from £250 to £500. LPAs can be even more expensive, often £200-£500 per document, plus the mandatory registration fee of £82 with the Office of the Public Guardian (OPG), which LegalWills.co.uk’s fee does not cover.

Value for Money and Hidden Costs

On the surface, LegalWills.co.uk offers excellent value for money, especially for simple, straightforward estates. The upfront cost is clear, and there are no immediate “hidden” fees from LegalWills.co.uk itself.

However, it’s crucial to consider potential external costs and the value of bespoke advice:

• OPG Registration Fees for LPAs: As noted, the £99.95 fee for an LPA from LegalWills.co.uk does not include the £82 registration fee payable to the Office of the Public Guardian (OPG) for each LPA. Without OPG registration, an LPA is not legally valid for use. This is a common point of confusion for users of online LPA services.
• Professional Witnessing: While the service provides the document, you are responsible for finding two independent witnesses and ensuring the Will is correctly signed. There is no direct cost from LegalWills.co.uk for this, but if you require professional witnessing services, that would be an additional expense.
• Probate Fees: After death, the estate will likely incur probate fees and potentially Inheritance Tax (IHT). These are standard costs for any estate, regardless of how the Will was made, but important to remember that the Will writing fee is just one component of overall estate administration costs. For estates over £5,000, the probate application fee is £273 in England and Wales.
• The Cost of “Getting It Wrong”: The most significant potential “hidden” cost isn’t a direct fee but the expense and distress caused if the Will is poorly drafted, unclear, or legally invalid. If a Will is challenged or requires rectification due to errors, the legal fees incurred can far outweigh the savings made by using an online service. This is particularly relevant for those seeking to adhere to specific religious laws, where misinterpretation can lead to significant ethical and familial complications. A contested Will can cost tens of thousands of pounds in legal fees, far eclipsing the initial savings.

In conclusion, while LegalWills.co.uk is undoubtedly an economical choice for basic Will writing, users must be fully aware of what is included and, more importantly, what is not. For complex estates, or those requiring adherence to specific religious laws like Fara’id, the apparent savings might be a false economy if the document fails to achieve its intended purpose or leads to future disputes. Listers.co.uk Review

LegalWills.co.uk vs. Traditional Solicitors

The decision between using an online Will writing service like LegalWills.co.uk and engaging a traditional solicitor is a pivotal one, with significant implications for the validity and effectiveness of your estate plan. Each approach offers distinct advantages and disadvantages, particularly when considering complex legal needs or specific ethical and religious requirements.

Online Services: Speed and Affordability

Online services are fundamentally built on the principles of speed, convenience, and low cost. They democratise access to legal documentation, making it possible for individuals to create a Will without the high fees associated with solicitor consultations.

• Process: Users typically answer a series of questions online, and the system generates a Will based on these inputs. This self-service model is quick and efficient. LegalWills.co.uk, for example, boasts that a Will can be completed in “20 minutes.”
• Cost: As discussed, the cost is a fraction of what a solicitor charges. A basic Will might be £40-£60.
• Accessibility: Available 24/7 from anywhere with an internet connection, making it ideal for those with busy schedules or limited mobility.
• Simplicity: Best suited for straightforward situations – e.g., a married couple leaving everything to each other and then to their adult children, with no complex assets or beneficiaries.

However, the “fill-in-the-blanks” nature means there’s no human legal oversight or personalised advice. The service simply generates a document based on your answers, without assessing the nuances of your situation or potential future challenges.

Traditional Solicitors: Expertise and Personalisation

Traditional solicitors offer a comprehensive, tailored approach to Will writing. Their value lies in their legal expertise, ability to provide personalised advice, and capacity to handle complex scenarios.

• Process: Involves face-to-face (or video) consultations where a solicitor gathers detailed information about your assets, family, wishes, and potential challenges. They provide advice on tax implications, trust structures, and potential pitfalls. The drafting process is iterative, with opportunities for review and amendment.
• Cost: Significantly higher, ranging from £150 for a very simple Will to thousands for complex estates involving trusts, multiple properties, or international assets. According to Law Society data, the average hourly rate for a solicitor in London can be £250-£400.
• Expert Advice: Solicitors can explain legal jargon, advise on Inheritance Tax planning, discuss potential challenges to the Will, and help you structure your estate to achieve specific goals while minimising risks. They can also provide certified copies and securely store original documents.
• Complex Situations: Essential for blended families, disabled beneficiaries (requiring protective trusts), business owners, individuals with overseas assets, or those seeking to make specific provisions for charities or individuals not typically covered by standard inheritance laws.
• Islamic Will Compliance: Crucially, a solicitor specialising in Islamic law can draft a Will that is fully compliant with both UK legislation and Fara’id (Islamic inheritance laws). This involves complex calculations and specific clauses to ensure that assets are distributed according to Islamic principles, including provisions for bequests (wasiyya) and the distribution of the remaining estate to specific heirs. Online services, even those with “Islamic Will” options, often lack the nuanced legal advice required to ensure full compliance and avoid future disputes. A solicitor will be able to verify that the Will adheres to both sets of laws, something an automated system cannot guarantee.

The Verdict: Where Each Excels

Feature	LegalWills.co.uk (Online Service)	Traditional Solicitor
Complexity	Best for simple, straightforward estates.	Essential for complex family structures, significant assets, trusts, business interests, international assets, and specific tax planning.
Cost	Highly affordable (e.g., £40-£100).	Significantly higher (e.g., £150-£1000s+), but reflects personalised expertise.
Advice	No personalised legal advice; relies on user input.	Expert legal advice, tailored to individual circumstances, proactive identification of issues.
Islamic Law	Does not explicitly cater to comprehensive Fara’id compliance.	A specialist solicitor can draft a Will fully compliant with UK and Islamic inheritance laws, ensuring all requirements are met. Crucial for ensuring ethical and religious adherence.
Error Potential	Higher risk of user error or misinterpretation without review.	Lower risk due to solicitor’s expertise and review process.
Time	Quick completion (e.g., 20-30 minutes for drafting).	Can take weeks or months depending on complexity and client availability.
Support	Limited; often email-based FAQs.	Direct access to a legal professional for questions and guidance.
Witnessing	User’s responsibility.	Solicitor often provides witnessing services or clear instructions, and can store the original Will securely.
Liability	Limited liability for errors arising from user input.	Professional indemnity insurance covers errors made by the solicitor, offering a layer of protection.

For individuals seeking a simple Will without any complex assets or beneficiaries, and who are confident in their understanding of the process, LegalWills.co.uk can be a cost-effective solution. However, for anyone with more intricate personal or financial circumstances, or critically, those who wish for their Will to strictly adhere to Islamic inheritance laws, investing in a specialist solicitor is not just advisable, but often essential to ensure the Will is legally sound, ethically compliant, and effectively achieves its intended purpose without causing future family disputes. The initial savings from an online service could easily be dwarfed by the costs of legal challenges or unintended consequences if the Will is not properly drafted. Lowcostcompetitions.co.uk Review

How to Cancel LegalWills.co.uk Subscription

Understanding how to manage or cancel a subscription with an online service like LegalWills.co.uk is important for users who may no longer need their services or wish to explore other options. While the primary product is the Will document itself, LegalWills.co.uk does offer ongoing services, such as their “Vault” document storage.

Steps to Cancel a LegalWills.co.uk Service or Subscription

LegalWills.co.uk does not typically operate on a recurring “subscription” model for the Will creation itself, but rather for supplementary services like document storage (the “Vault Service”) or future updates. The process for managing these often involves accessing your account settings.

1. Log In to Your Account: The first step is always to log into your personal account on the LegalWills.co.uk website. Look for a “My Account” or “Login” button, usually located in the top right corner of the homepage.
2. Navigate to Account Settings or Services: Once logged in, you’ll need to find the section related to your active services, subscriptions, or account management. This might be labelled “My Documents,” “My Services,” “Account Settings,” or similar.
3. Identify Active Subscriptions: Within this section, locate any recurring services you might have, such as the “Vault Service” for document storage or any renewal options for your Will.
4. Follow Cancellation Prompts: There should be a clear option to cancel or manage these recurring services. Click on the relevant link or button and follow the prompts to confirm your cancellation. You may be asked for a reason for cancellation.
5. Confirmation: After completing the process, ensure you receive a confirmation email from LegalWills.co.uk. This serves as proof of your cancellation. If you don’t receive one, it’s advisable to contact their customer support.

Important Considerations Before Cancelling

• Will Validity: Cancelling a “Vault Service” or similar subscription does not invalidate the Will document you created. Once your Will is properly printed, signed, and witnessed according to UK law, it remains a legally binding document regardless of whether you continue to use LegalWills.co.uk’s online services.
• Document Access: Before cancelling any storage service, ensure you have downloaded and saved all your documents (Will, LPAs, etc.) securely on your own device. You should also have the original, signed, and witnessed physical copy stored safely.
• Renewal Notifications: Be mindful of any renewal notifications if you opted for a yearly update service or document storage. If you do not wish to continue, make sure to cancel before the renewal date to avoid being charged.
• Alternative Storage: If you cancel LegalWills.co.uk’s storage service, ensure you have a secure alternative in place for your important legal documents. Options include fireproof safes, secure bank vaults, or professional document storage services provided by solicitors.

While LegalWills.co.uk aims for user-friendliness, it’s always prudent to review their Terms and Conditions or FAQs regarding cancellation policies, as these can be updated periodically. If you encounter any difficulties, their customer support should be your next point of contact.

LegalWills.co.uk Alternatives

When it comes to something as crucial as a Will, exploring alternatives is not just a good idea, it’s essential. While LegalWills.co.uk offers a convenient online solution, it may not fit every individual’s needs, especially when dealing with complex family dynamics, significant assets, or specific religious requirements like Islamic inheritance law.

Here are the primary alternatives to LegalWills.co.uk, each with its own advantages and disadvantages: Prettyparade.co.uk Review

1. Traditional High Street Solicitors

• Description: Engaging a qualified solicitor is the most traditional and often the most comprehensive way to create a Will.
• Pros:
  • Personalised Advice: Solicitors provide tailored legal advice, understanding your unique circumstances, assets, and wishes. They can identify potential issues you might not consider.
  • Complex Estates: Ideal for complex situations, such as blended families, dependants with special needs, business assets, overseas property, or intricate tax planning.
  • Error Minimisation: Expert drafting significantly reduces the risk of errors or ambiguities that could lead to a contested Will.
  • Islamic Law Compliance: Crucially, many solicitors specialise in Islamic inheritance law (Fara’id), ensuring your Will is fully compliant with both UK law and Sharia principles. They can structure the Will to correctly distribute assets according to fixed shares and handle bequests (wasiyya) within Islamic guidelines.
  • Secure Storage: Many solicitors offer secure storage for your original Will and provide certified copies.
• Cons:
  • Cost: Significantly more expensive than online services, often ranging from £150 to over £1000 depending on complexity.
  • Time-Consuming: Requires appointments and can take longer to finalise.
• Best For: Anyone with a complex estate, specific family circumstances, or those seeking full Sharia compliance for their Will.
• Example: Large law firms or smaller, local solicitor practices in your area. Look for firms accredited by The Law Society.

2. Specialist Islamic Will Writers (Solicitors or Consultants)

• Description: These are legal professionals or consultants who have expertise in both UK inheritance law and Islamic jurisprudence (Fiqh al-Mawarith).
• Pros:
  • Guaranteed Sharia Compliance: Their primary focus is to ensure the Will adheres strictly to the rules of Fara’id, which is essential for many Muslims to fulfil their religious obligations.
  • Bridge UK Law & Islam: They can expertly navigate the complexities of drafting a Will that is legally binding in the UK while also reflecting Islamic principles, such as limiting the portion of the estate that can be freely bequeathed (typically one-third) and ensuring the remaining two-thirds are distributed according to fixed Quranic shares.
  • Educative Role: They often educate clients on the nuances of Islamic inheritance, helping them understand their rights and responsibilities.
• Cons:
  • Cost: Similar to general solicitors, their fees can be substantial due to their specialised knowledge.
  • Availability: May be fewer in number compared to general solicitors, especially in less populated areas.
• Best For: All Muslims who want to ensure their Will is 100% compliant with both UK law and Islamic inheritance principles.
• Example: Specific legal firms or independent Islamic Will consultants listed by organisations like the Association of Muslim Lawyers (AML) or the Muslim Council of Britain (MCB).

3. Will Writing Companies (Non-Solicitor)

• Description: These are businesses that specialise solely in writing Wills but are not regulated as solicitors. They often offer a more personal service than online platforms but are less expensive than solicitors.
• Pros:
  • More Personal than Online: Often involve a face-to-face or phone consultation.
  • More Affordable than Solicitors: Generally cheaper than traditional solicitors.
• Cons:
  • Less Regulation: They are not regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA), meaning less consumer protection if things go wrong.
  • Limited Scope: May not be able to advise on complex legal or tax matters.
  • No Islamic Expertise: Unlikely to have the expertise to draft Sharia-compliant Wills.
• Best For: Individuals with relatively straightforward estates who prefer some human interaction but want to keep costs down.
• Example: Many independent Will writing services operating regionally or nationally.

4. DIY Will Kits

• Description: These are physical kits available from stationery shops or online marketplaces, containing templates and instructions for writing your own Will.
• Pros:
  • Cheapest Option: Costs only a few pounds.
  • Immediate Access: Can be purchased and used instantly.
• Cons:
  • Highest Risk of Errors: Very easy to make mistakes that could invalidate the Will or lead to unintended consequences. Lack of personalised guidance.
  • No Legal Advice: Zero legal advice or review.
  • Not for Complex Cases: Absolutely unsuitable for anything beyond the simplest of estates.
  • Zero Islamic Compliance: No consideration for Islamic inheritance laws whatsoever.
• Best For: Only for the absolute simplest estates where the individual is confident in their legal understanding, understands the high risks, and has no specific religious requirements. Not recommended for most people.
• Example: Available on Amazon UK or high street stationery stores.

When choosing an alternative, it is paramount to consider the complexity of your estate, your family structure, and any specific wishes you have, particularly religious requirements. For Muslims, ensuring a Will adheres to Islamic inheritance laws is a profound responsibility, and this almost always necessitates the expertise of a solicitor or consultant well-versed in both UK and Sharia law, rather than relying on generic online templates.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is LegalWills.co.uk?

LegalWills.co.uk is an online platform based in the UK that allows individuals to create their own legally binding Wills, Lasting Powers of Attorney, and other estate planning documents through a guided, step-by-step process.

Is LegalWills.co.uk legally binding in the UK?

Yes, documents drafted through LegalWills.co.uk can be legally binding in the UK, provided they are properly printed, signed, and witnessed according to the requirements of the Wills Act 1837. The platform provides the document, but the user is responsible for correct execution.

How much does LegalWills.co.uk cost?

A single Will typically costs around £39.95, while a Lasting Power of Attorney is approximately £99.95. Mirror Wills for couples are often available at a discounted rate, around £59.95. These fees are significantly lower than traditional solicitor charges. Nebicorum.co.uk Review

Does LegalWills.co.uk offer free Will services?

No, LegalWills.co.uk does not offer entirely free Will services. They operate on a paid model for their document creation services.

Can I make an Islamic Will with LegalWills.co.uk?

LegalWills.co.uk does not explicitly cater to comprehensive Islamic inheritance law (Fara’id) compliance. While you can include general bequests, a standard UK Will template will not automatically adhere to the specific and intricate distribution rules of Islamic law, which often requires specialised legal advice.

What are the main disadvantages of using LegalWills.co.uk?

The main disadvantages include a lack of personalised legal advice, inability to address complex family or asset situations, potential for user errors without professional review, and no inherent compliance with specific religious inheritance laws like Fara’id.

Are there any hidden fees with LegalWills.co.uk?

LegalWills.co.uk’s own fees are transparent and upfront. However, users must be aware of external costs, such as the mandatory £82 registration fee for each Lasting Power of Attorney payable to the Office of the Public Guardian (OPG), which is not included in LegalWills.co.uk’s price.

How long does it take to create a Will using LegalWills.co.uk?

LegalWills.co.uk states that a basic Will can be completed in as little as 20 minutes online. However, thorough review and careful consideration of all clauses are recommended, which may take longer. Theufhgroup.co.uk Review

Do I need a solicitor if I use LegalWills.co.uk?

For simple, straightforward estates, a solicitor might not be strictly necessary. However, for complex situations, specific ethical or religious requirements (like Islamic inheritance), or if you want peace of mind through professional legal advice, consulting a solicitor is highly recommended, even after using an online service.

How do I properly sign and witness my Will created with LegalWills.co.uk?

You must print the Will, then sign it in the physical presence of two independent witnesses (who are not beneficiaries or married to beneficiaries) who are over 18. Both witnesses must then also sign the Will in your presence. Failure to follow these steps strictly will invalidate the Will.

Can I cancel my LegalWills.co.uk subscription or service?

Yes, if you have subscribed to ongoing services like their “Vault Service” for document storage, you can typically cancel by logging into your account, navigating to your services or account settings, and following the cancellation prompts.

What happens to my Will if I cancel my LegalWills.co.uk subscription?

Cancelling an ongoing service with LegalWills.co.uk does not invalidate your Will, provided it was properly signed and witnessed. The physical, executed document remains legally binding. However, you will lose access to their online storage or update services.

What is a Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA)?

A Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA) is a legal document that allows you to appoint someone (an attorney) to make decisions on your behalf if you lose the mental capacity to do so yourself. There are two types: Property and Financial Affairs LPA, and Health and Welfare LPA. Watch.co.uk Review

Is LegalWills.co.uk suitable for complex estates?

No, LegalWills.co.uk is generally not suitable for complex estates. These include situations with blended families, business assets, overseas properties, beneficiaries with special needs, or significant Inheritance Tax planning needs, which require bespoke legal advice from a solicitor.

What are the best alternatives to LegalWills.co.uk?

The best alternatives include engaging traditional high street solicitors, particularly those specialising in Islamic Wills for Sharia compliance, or using other reputable Will writing companies (though less regulated than solicitors). DIY Will kits are generally not recommended due to high error risk.

How does LegalWills.co.uk handle document storage?

LegalWills.co.uk offers a “Vault Service” for secure online storage of your Will and other estate planning documents. This is typically an annual subscription service. You are also advised to keep the original physical copy in a secure location.

Can I update my Will with LegalWills.co.uk after creating it?

Yes, LegalWills.co.uk usually allows you to make updates to your Will document through your online account, often for a limited period or as part of a subscription. Any updated Will must be re-printed, re-signed, and re-witnessed to be legally valid.

What is the difference between a Will and a Lasting Power of Attorney?

A Will dictates how your assets are distributed after your death, while a Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA) grants someone authority to make decisions on your behalf while you are alive, typically if you lose mental capacity. Jothornton.co.uk Review

Does LegalWills.co.uk provide Inheritance Tax advice?

While LegalWills.co.uk may offer basic information or prompts related to Inheritance Tax, it does not provide personalised Inheritance Tax advice. For comprehensive tax planning and mitigation strategies, you should consult a qualified financial advisor or solicitor specialising in estate planning.

What should I do if I have specific ethical or religious requirements for my Will?

If you have specific ethical or religious requirements, especially for Islamic inheritance (Fara’id), it is highly recommended to consult a solicitor who specialises in both UK law and Islamic jurisprudence. Online generic services are unlikely to fully accommodate these nuanced needs.