Your life does not stand still, and neither should your will. From growing families to changing finances, the milestones you experience can all have a direct impact on what you would want to happen in the future.
Yet, many people put their will in place and rarely revisit it, assuming it will always reflect their wishes.
In reality, an outdated will can create confusion, leave gaps in protection, and place unnecessary strain on the people you care about most.
Taking the time to review your will ensures it continues to work as intended, giving you confidence that everything is clearly set out and legally secure.
Is your will still right for you?
A will is far more than just a legal document. It captures your wishes, protects your loved ones, and safeguards the legacy you want to leave behind.
Modern families are changing rapidly, and people often wrongly assume that their loved ones will be automatically taken care of.
However, without clear and legally valid instructions, families and partners can face uncertainty, distress, and even costly disputes – often discovering too late that assumptions do not provide protection under the law and can have serious consequences.
Why do I need to update my will?
Your will ensures that your money, property, and personal possessions pass to the people you choose. If you have children under the age of 18, you can also appoint legal guardians in your will. And if you have pets, you can decide who will look after them after your passing. But when did you last review yours?
If your will is not up to date, or you don’t have a will
- Your estate may be distributed under the intestacy rules, which might not reflect your wishes or your family’s needs.
- Loved ones could face unnecessary stress, delays, or legal disagreements at an already difficult time.
Your will should be treated as a living document – evolving as your circumstances
change. Regular reviews aren’t a luxury; they’re an essential part of protecting the people you care about.
When should I update my will?
It’s best practice to review your will every three to five years and after any major life event, such as:
- Getting married or entering a civil partnership
- Getting divorced or dissolving a civil partnership
- Becoming a parent or grandparent
- Buying a home or changing your financial situation
- Losing a loved one
- Starting a business
- You or a beneficiary is obtaining a Gender Recognition Certificate
Need to make or update your will?
If it’s been a while since you last looked at your will – or you don’t have one yet – now is the time to take action.
At Howell Jones, our Wills Solicitors in Surrey offer specialist expertise in later-life legal matters. We can help families put clear, legally robust arrangements in place that reflect real lives.
We aim to provide personalised support with care, empathy, and attention to detail, ensuring your wishes are clearly documented and legally protected.
Don’t wait until it’s too late; ensure your future wishes are in place today. If you need to make or update your will, contact our team for expert advice.
