Making a will is one of the most important steps you can take to secure your family’s future. At Marley Solicitors, we help residents of Olney create legally sound, personalised wills that reflect their wishes and protect their loved ones.

Without a will, the law decides who inherits your assets. This can result in family disputes, unintended beneficiaries, and long delays in the administration of your estate. Writing a will gives you control, clarity, and peace of mind.

What is a will and why is it important?

A will is a legal document that sets out your wishes for the distribution of your estate after your death. It can include instructions for:

Who inherits your property, money, and possessions
Guardianship of minor children
Your funeral preferences
Appointment of executors (the people who carry out your wishes)
Charitable donations
Handling of digital assets such as online accounts and cryptocurrencies

If you die without a valid will, your estate is distributed under the rules of intestacy. In England, this often means only spouses, civil partners, and close relatives can inherit. Unmarried partners and stepchildren are not automatically entitled, which can be deeply distressing.

Common reasons people delay writing a will

In Olney and beyond, many people put off writing a will. Here are the most common reasons why:

Belief they are too young or healthy: Death is rarely predictable. Planning now avoids hardship later
Assumption they have nothing worth leaving: Even modest estates may involve property, pensions, savings, or sentimental items
Perceived complexity: With expert guidance, the process is far easier than most imagine
Discomfort discussing death: While it may be difficult, creating a will is ultimately an act of care for those left behind

At Marley Solicitors, we offer a sensitive and straightforward approach to will writing, ensuring that you feel comfortable every step of the way.

Why professional will writing is essential

While some people consider using DIY kits or online templates, these often lead to costly mistakes. An invalid or ambiguous will can result in legal challenges, delays, and unintended outcomes.

Here’s why you should trust a solicitor to write your will:

Clarity and precision: Legal language is used to avoid misinterpretation
Tax efficiency: We can help structure your estate to reduce inheritance tax where possible
Complex family arrangements: If you are part of a blended family or have dependents with special needs, expert advice is critical
Executor guidance: We help you choose reliable executors who understand their responsibilities
Regular reviews: Your will can be reviewed as your circumstances change

When should you make or update your will?

You should consider writing or updating your will whenever your personal or financial circumstances change significantly. Examples include:

Marriage or civil partnership
Divorce or separation
Birth or adoption of children or grandchildren
Buying or selling property
Starting or selling a business
Inheriting money or assets
Significant health changes
Change in your wishes regarding beneficiaries

Even if nothing major has changed, reviewing your will every 3–5 years is wise.

Local expertise you can trust in Olney

Marley Solicitors is proud to serve the Olney community. As a trusted name in legal services, we offer a personalised approach backed by deep understanding of both national law and local concerns.

We also have local insight into the services and institutions that matter to you, including:

Olney Clinic (for general medical needs)
The Olney Dental Practice
Cobbs Garden Surgery
Milton Keynes University Hospital NHS Foundation Trust

This local knowledge helps us consider real-world scenarios, such as arranging care or liaising with health providers in complex cases.

Planning for the future: Guardianship, trusts, and digital assets

Writing a will is not just about passing on your belongings. It’s about creating a clear, actionable plan for your legacy.

Guardianship: If you have minor children, naming a guardian in your will ensures their care is not left to chance.

Trusts: Trusts can protect vulnerable beneficiaries, manage funds for minors, and reduce exposure to inheritance tax. We offer tailored trust advice for families in Olney.

Digital assets: From online banking to social media, your digital footprint needs to be managed after death. We help you include these in your will, ensuring your wishes are carried out.

Inheritance tax and your will

Inheritance tax (IHT) in the UK is charged at 40% on estates over a certain threshold. Through strategic planning, your will can help reduce or eliminate this burden.

We can advise on:

Using the nil-rate band and residence nil-rate band effectively
Charitable giving exemptions
Spousal and civil partner exemptions
Lifetime gifting strategies

Our expertise ensures that your beneficiaries receive as much of your estate as possible.

FAQs

Can I make a will if I’m in hospital or unwell in Olney?
Yes. We can arrange home, hospital, or care home visits within Olney and the surrounding areas. We will take all necessary precautions to ensure comfort, confidentiality, and legal compliance.

What if I already have a will?
Even if you already have a will, it may need updating to reflect changes in your life. If your current will is more than five years old, was made when your circumstances were different, or was created using a DIY kit, it’s time for a professional review. We offer a free initial review service for residents of Olney to assess whether your will remains valid and appropriate.

How much does it cost to make a will with Marley Solicitors?
Our prices are transparent and competitive. We offer a free consultation and fixed fees for single or mirror wills. Additional services such as trusts or tax advice may involve separate charges, which will always be explained upfront.

How to take control of your future?
If you live in Olney and haven’t made a will, or if your existing will needs updating, don’t wait. Let Marley Solicitors help you protect what matters most.

Olney

Make your will today in Olney: Protect your legacy with Marley Solicitors