Making a will is one of the most important legal steps any individual can take, yet many people in Chesham and the surrounding areas still put it off. Whether due to uncertainty, discomfort in discussing death, or the mistaken belief that it’s only necessary for the elderly or wealthy, the reality is that everyone should have a legally binding will.
At Marley Solicitors, we offer expert will writing services in Chesham designed to provide peace of mind. We ensure your wishes are respected and your estate is passed on exactly as you intend. From single wills to complex estate planning involving trusts and tax strategies, our solicitors are here to help you protect what matters most.
Why making a will matters
Dying without a will (known legally as dying intestate) can have serious consequences for your family and your legacy. Under the UK’s intestacy laws, your estate will be distributed based on a rigid formula. This could mean:
- A partner you are not married to may receive nothing
- Children from a previous relationship might not be adequately provided for
- Family disputes can arise, often resulting in costly and time-consuming litigation
By making a will, you retain control over how your money, property, and possessions are divided. You can also make provisions for guardianship of children, care for pets, and even donations to charities close to your heart.
Key benefits of a professionally drafted will
While DIY will kits or online templates may seem like an easy and affordable option, they often fail to account for individual complexities or legal technicalities. A professional will drafted by Marley Solicitors offers significant advantages:
- Accuracy and clarity: Ensures your instructions are legally valid and unambiguous
- Avoids disputes: Reduces the risk of challenges from family members or beneficiaries
- Personalised advice: Our solicitors take your full circumstances into account
- Tax efficiency: We help you plan to reduce inheritance tax liability where appropriate
- Futureproofing: Allows for easier updates as your situation changes
Common issues with homemade wills
Many clients come to us after realising that a DIY will may not offer the protection they need. Some typical problems include:
- Unclear language that leads to disputes
- Improper witnessing, making the will invalid
- Failure to include all assets or debts
- Outdated information, such as naming a deceased executor or beneficiary
- Overlooking guardianship provisions for minor children
A simple oversight can cause major problems later. Working with a legal professional ensures that your will is comprehensive, enforceable, and aligned with your best interests.
Our will writing services in Chesham
Marley Solicitors offers a full suite of estate planning solutions, from basic wills to complex arrangements. Our services include:
Single wills
Ideal for individuals who wish to specify exactly how their estate should be distributed. These are common for people with straightforward estates, or those writing their first will.
Mirror wills
Popular among married couples or civil partners who share the same wishes. These reflect each other’s instructions, providing clarity and mutual protection.
Trusts
Trusts are legal structures that allow you to manage and protect your assets for others. We can advise on setting up:
- Discretionary trusts for beneficiaries with specific needs
- Life interest trusts to ensure a partner can remain in a property
- Trusts for minor children, protecting inheritances until they come of age
Inheritance tax planning
We offer guidance on how to structure your will to reduce potential tax liabilities. This includes making gifts within your tax-free allowances, charitable donations, and setting up trusts.
Lasting powers of attorney (LPA)
We help you appoint someone you trust to make financial or health decisions if you lose mental capacity. An LPA ensures your affairs are handled according to your wishes even if you can no longer communicate them.
Will storage and updates
We offer secure will storage services to keep your documents safe. We also provide regular review options to ensure your will remains current with your life changes.
Local knowledge, personal service
Marley Solicitors is proud to serve the Chesham community. With years of experience helping local clients, we understand the nuances of family structures, property ownership, and community values that are unique to the area.
We also have strong ties to local healthcare and support services, including:
- Buckinghamshire Healthcare NHS Trust
- Chesham Community Hospital
- Gladstone Road Surgery
- Redwood House Dental Surgery
If you are in hospital, homebound, or in a care setting, we offer flexible appointment options including home and video visits.
The process: What to expect when working with us
We make the process of writing a will straightforward and stress-free:
Step 1: Free initial consultation
We begin with a no-obligation consultation to understand your needs. We will discuss:
- Your family situation
- Your property and financial assets
- Any existing wills or legal arrangements
- Special wishes or concerns
Step 2: Drafting your will
Based on the consultation, we draft a bespoke will tailored to your instructions. This will account for all legal formalities, inheritance laws, and your personal preferences.
Step 3: Review and revisions
You will receive a draft to review. Any changes or clarifications are handled quickly and accurately.
Step 4: Signing and witnessing
We guide you through the signing and witnessing process to ensure legal compliance. If needed, we can act as witnesses or arrange for this to be done safely at your location.
Step 5: Safe storage
We can store your finalised will securely and provide you with certified copies. Your loved ones will know exactly where to find it when the time comes.
When should you update your will?
A will is not a one-time document. You should review your will every 3–5 years or after major life changes, including:
- Marriage or divorce
- Birth of children or grandchildren
- Changes in financial circumstances
- Death of a named executor or beneficiary
- Selling or acquiring property
We offer review services to ensure your will always reflects your current wishes and situation.
What makes Marley Solicitors different?
- Client-first philosophy: We listen first, advise second. You’ll never feel rushed or pressured.
- Legal excellence: Our solicitors have years of specialised experience in private client law.
- Transparency: Clear, upfront pricing with no hidden charges.
- Local trust: We’re known in Chesham for being approachable, responsive, and professional.
Frequently asked questions
Can I claim for a legal error if my loved one’s DIY will is invalid in Chesham?
If a will is invalid due to errors or improper execution, it may be possible to contest it. However, the process can be complex and emotionally draining. It’s best to avoid this risk altogether by seeking professional legal support during the will preparation. Marley Solicitors can advise on both contesting and defending wills in Chesham.
How much does it cost to write a will with Marley Solicitors?
Our pricing is competitive and transparent. A basic single will starts from a modest fixed fee, while more complex arrangements (such as those involving trusts or tax planning) are priced based on your needs. We provide a quote before any work begins.
Take the first step to peace of mind
Writing a will is an act of care and responsibility. It gives clarity to your loved ones and ensures that your legacy is protected. At Marley Solicitors, we take pride in offering expert, compassionate will writing services to individuals and families in Chesham.
Whether you need a simple will or full estate planning, our team is here to help. Contact Marley Solicitors today for a free, no-obligation consultation and take control of your future with confidence.
