Will Writing in 2025: What’s New and Why It Matters

Key Changes to Will Writing in 2025

The proposed reforms—outlined in the draft Wills Bill—bring several important updates:

• Minimum Age Lowered to 16
  Individuals can now make a valid will from the age of 16, recognising the autonomy of younger people, especially in serious health circumstances.
• Marriage No Longer Revokes a Will
  Previously, marriage or civil partnership automatically invalidated existing wills. This rule is being scrapped to prevent financial abuse through “predatory marriages.”
• Electronic Wills Recognised
  Legally valid digital wills will be permitted, provided they meet strict security and authenticity standards. This reflects the growing role of technology in legal processes.
• Simplified Mental Capacity Test
  The Mental Capacity Act 2005 will now be the standard for assessing testamentary capacity, replacing the outdated mix of legal tests.
• Protection Against Undue Influence
  Courts will be empowered to infer undue influence where there’s reasonable suspicion, making it easier to challenge coercion and safeguard the testator’s true intentions.
• Recognition of Informal Wills
  Courts may accept documents that don’t meet formal requirements if they clearly reflect the person’s settled intentions—offering flexibility while maintaining safeguards against fraud.

These changes are designed to make will writing more accessible, secure, and reflective of modern life. We will advise our clients in more detail once the final format of the provisions are put into place . 

Why Making a Will Is More Important Than Ever

Despite these positive changes, the importance of making a will remains paramount. Here’s why:

• Protect Your Loved Ones
  A will ensures your estate is distributed according to your wishes, avoiding disputes and ensuring your loved ones are cared for.
• Appoint Guardians for Children
  You can name legal guardians for your children, preventing courts from making decisions that may not align with your values.
• Avoid Intestacy Rules
  Without a will, your estate is divided according to strict legal rules, which may exclude unmarried partners or distant relatives you intended to benefit.
• Minimise Tax Liabilities
  Strategic will planning can reduce inheritance tax, preserving more of your estate for your beneficiaries.
• Plan for Complex Situations
  Whether you own a business, have overseas assets, or want to set up trusts, a professionally drafted will ensures your intentions are legally sound.

How Jordans Solicitors LLP Can Help

At Jordans Solicitors LLP, our experienced Private Client Team offers tailored will writing services to suit every need:

• Protector Will – For straightforward estate planning. 
• Protector Plus Will – Covers more complex family and financial arrangements. 
• Complex Wills – Ideal for inheritance tax planning, trusts, and business assets. 
• Financial Protector Will – Designed for high-value estates and business owners.

Our team—including Rosemarie Sharp, Sam Watton, and Kirsty Sharp—provides expert guidance to ensure your wishes are respected and your assets protected. We also offer downloadable guides for will makers and executors to help you understand the process clearly.

Ready to Secure Your Legacy?

Whether you’re making your first will or updating an existing one, Jordans Solicitors LLP is here to help. Contact our Doncaster or Kiveton Park offices, or visit www.jordansllp.co.uk to learn more and request a consultation.

📞 01302 365374
📧 info@jordansllp.com