just found some info ...
Is it necessary to use a solicitor
There is no need for a will to be drawn up or witnessed by a solicitor. If you wish to make a will yourself, you can do so.
However, you should only consider doing this if the will is going to be straightforward.
It is generally advisable to use a solicitor or to have a solicitor check a will you have drawn up to make sure it will have the effect you want. This is because it is easy to make mistakes and, if there are errors in the will, this can cause problems after your death. Sorting out misunderstandings and disputes after your death may result in considerable legal costs, which will reduce the amount of money in the estate.
You should remember that a solicitor will charge for their services in drawing up or checking a will. They should give you the best possible information about the cost of their services. They should give you this at the beginning of their work with you.
Some common mistakes in making a will are:-
- not being aware of the formal requirements needed to make a will legally valid
- failing to take account of all the money and property available
- failing to take account of the possibility that a beneficiary may die before the person making the will
- changing the will. If these alterations are not signed and witnessed, they are invalid
- being unaware of the effect of marriage, a registered civil partnership, divorce or dissolution of a civil partnership on a will
- being unaware of the rules which exist to enable dependants to claim from the estate if they believe they are not adequately provided for. These rules mean that the provisions in the will could be overturned.