Planning for the future is one of the most responsible and caring decisions you can make for your loved ones. Whether you’re thinking about your family’s financial security, the guardianship of your children, or making charitable donations, a professionally written will gives you the peace of mind that your wishes will be honoured. At Marley Solicitors, we offer clear, cost-effective will writing services for residents of Milton Keynes and surrounding areas, tailored to your individual circumstances.
What is a will and why do you need one?
A will is a legally binding document that outlines how your assets should be distributed after your death. It can also appoint guardians for minor children, specify funeral arrangements, and name executors who will handle your estate. Despite its importance, thousands of people across the UK still do not have a will in place, often assuming it’s a task for later in life.
In reality, a will is crucial at any stage of adulthood. Without one, your estate will be managed under the rules of intestacy, which may not align with your personal wishes. For instance, long-term partners not married or in a civil partnership are not entitled to inherit anything unless specified in a will. Similarly, your assets may be divided in ways you did not intend, potentially causing distress to your loved ones.
Benefits of having a professionally written will
Many people attempt to write their own will using online templates or DIY kits. While this may seem cost-effective, even small mistakes or unclear language can result in serious legal issues. By working with Marley Solicitors, you receive expert legal advice and a properly executed will that fully reflects your intentions.
Benefits include:
- Legal accuracy and clarity
- Tailored advice based on your family and financial situation
- Reduced risk of disputes or claims against your estate
- Efficient probate process for your executors
- Tax-efficient planning for your beneficiaries
We guide you through every step, helping you understand your options and avoid common pitfalls such as unclear clauses, invalid witness signatures, or failing to consider inheritance tax implications.
Our will writing services in Milton Keynes
At Marley Solicitors, our simple will writing service is ideal for individuals or couples with relatively straightforward wishes. We take care of all the legal formalities while making the process easy to understand and stress-free.
Our service includes:
- A free initial consultation to assess your needs
- Clear explanations of your legal rights and obligations
- Custom-drafted will documents tailored to your circumstances
- Execution and witnessing guidance
- Optional will storage for future security
- Advice on inheritance tax thresholds and exemptions
We also provide mirror wills for couples, which are two similar wills reflecting each other’s wishes, and can advise on guardianship provisions, specific gifts, and residuary estate distribution.
When should you write or update a will?
A common myth is that wills are only needed later in life. In fact, anyone over the age of 18 should consider making a will, especially if you:
- Own property or other valuable assets
- Have children or dependants
- Have been recently married, divorced, or entered a civil partnership
- Want to leave gifts to friends, charities, or community organisations
- Have specific wishes regarding your funeral
- Want to exclude someone from your estate
It is also essential to update your will after major life events. We recommend reviewing your will every 3–5 years, or sooner if your family, assets, or health circumstances change.
Common mistakes when writing a will
Unfortunately, errors in will drafting can lead to significant delays or even the invalidation of the document. Common mistakes include:
- Failing to sign or witness the will correctly
- Using vague or ambiguous language
- Not updating the will after key life changes
- Omitting children or stepchildren unintentionally
- Overlooking digital assets or online accounts
Our solicitors ensure that your will is comprehensive and legally sound, leaving no room for misinterpretation or legal challenges.
Local knowledge, trusted expertise
Based in Milton Keynes, Marley Solicitors understands the needs of our local community. We are proud to support clients across the city, including areas like Bletchley, Wolverton, Newport Pagnell, and Stony Stratford. We regularly work with local healthcare professionals and institutions, including Milton Keynes University Hospital NHS Foundation Trust and practices like Parkside Medical Centre and Neath Hill Health Centre.
This local knowledge allows us to offer a personalised service, including home visits and remote consultations, which makes our legal advice accessible and convenient for everyone.
Lasting powers of attorney and estate planning
Will writing is just one part of planning for the future. We also offer services that complement and strengthen your estate plan, such as:
- Lasting powers of attorney (LPA): These allow you to appoint someone to make decisions on your behalf if you lose mental capacity. We can help you set up both health and welfare LPAs, and property and financial affairs LPAs.
- Setting up trusts: Useful for protecting assets for children or vulnerable beneficiaries, reducing tax liability, or managing gifts over time.
- Probate services: We assist executors in handling estate administration smoothly and in accordance with the law.
- Inheritance tax advice: We explain thresholds, exemptions, and strategies to minimise the tax burden on your estate.
By working with us, you can be confident that every element of your estate plan is coherent, legally compliant, and aligned with your goals.
FAQs
Can I claim for a will dispute in Milton Keynes?
Yes. If you have reason to believe a will is invalid or unfair, you may be able to contest it. Grounds for disputes include undue influence, lack of mental capacity, or procedural errors in execution. If you’re concerned about a will or your rights under one, we can provide a confidential assessment and advise on the appropriate legal action.
How much does it cost to make a simple will?
At Marley Solicitors, we offer fixed-fee will writing services to keep costs clear and manageable. The price depends on the complexity of your estate, whether you need a single or mirrored will, and any additional services, such as LPAs or trusts. You will always receive a full quote before proceeding.
Can I make a will online with Marley Solicitors?
We offer convenient remote consultations by phone or video call, allowing you to begin the process from the comfort of your home. However, the actual signing and witnessing of your will must be done in person, following strict legal guidelines. We will walk you through the process to ensure full compliance.
What happens if I lose my will?
If your original will is lost and no copy can be found, the law treats it as if you died without a will. That’s why we offer secure will storage services and encourage clients to inform a trusted person where their will is kept. We also provide certified copies for added security.
Your future, protected by professionals
Creating a will is one of the most important steps you can take to protect your loved ones and avoid uncertainty after you’re gone. At Marley Solicitors, we believe that legal services should be accessible, affordable, and understandable. Our experienced team is here to provide guidance, reassurance, and professional support every step of the way.
Whether you’re a young parent, a homeowner, recently retired, or simply looking to organise your affairs, our simple will writing service is the ideal starting point. Located conveniently in Milton Keynes, we’re proud to serve our community with a friendly, local touch and deep legal knowledge.
Contact Marley Solicitors today
Don’t leave your legacy to chance. Contact Marley Solicitors today to arrange a free, no-obligation consultation about writing your will. Our legal team in Milton Keynes is ready to help you take control of your future, protect your family, and give you the peace of mind that everything is in order.
