Will Writer vs. Solicitor: What is the difference?

When it comes to writing a Will, one of the most important decisions you’ll make is choosing the right professional to help you. Two common options are will writers and solicitors, but what exactly is the difference between the two? And more importantly, which one is best suited to your needs?

In this article, we’ll break down the roles of Will Writers and Solicitors and their key differences.

What is a Will Writer?

A will writer is a professional who specialises in writing Wills, either independently or within a company (often one that offers estate planning services). 

Will writers typically focus on providing straightforward will writing services at a lower cost than solicitors, but their scope of expertise is often limited to Will preparation and simple estate planning.

Whilst they are knowledgeable in Will drafting and the legal requirements involved, will writers are not necessarily qualified lawyers. For simple estates, this can be enough to ensure that your Will is legally valid and addresses your basic wishes.

However, will writers typically don’t have the same legal training as solicitors. This means they might not be equipped to handle more complex issues, such as trusts, business succession, or complex family dynamics.

Legal Protection

Will writers do not have the same professional indemnity insurance or legal protections that solicitors offer. If there’s an issue with your will, you may have limited recourse for compensation or legal action. 

Solicitors have professional qualifications and are heavily regulated by The Law Society. As regulated professionals, they are bound by strict codes of conduct and carry professional indemnity insurance, which protects you if there’s an issue with the advice or service you receive. This provides additional peace of mind.

Scope of Advice

Will writers can handle straightforward wills, but they generally cannot provide broader estate planning advice, tax strategies, property law, or navigate the complexities of probate and inheritance law.

However, in addition to drafting your Will, solicitors can help with other legal matters such as setting up trusts, dealing with inheritance tax, and providing ongoing advice about your estate after your death.

Estate Planning

Solicitors don’t just draft a Will—they can assist in structuring your estate to minimise tax liabilities, avoid probate complications, and ensure your estate is managed according to your wishes in the most efficient way possible.

Ongoing Legal Advice

Solicitors can offer ongoing support, helping you update your Will or estate plan as your circumstances change (e.g., marriage, children, business acquisitions). They can also assist with probate after your death, ensuring everything is handled according to the law.