Why Customers Are Making Wills Without Solicitors

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The latest IRN Legal Reports survey shows that fewer than half of consumers are using solicitors for wills. Instead, they’re relying on DIY options or opting for unbundled services, drafting simpler sections themselves and leaving the complex parts to legal professionals.

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The Motivation Behind DIY Wills

The median fixed fee for a will rose from £125 to £130 between 2024 and 2025. But cost is just one of the reasons a growing number of people are making their own wills.

Many believe their estates are straightforward and don’t need legal help, so choosing a DIY will is the preferred option. This is especially true if there are no assets, dependents or heirs.

The availability of online tools, templates and legal advice has also made it easier and more convenient to write a will without involving a solicitor, saving both time and money.

Public campaigns have played a role here too, with Lloyds recently highlighting the fact that nearly six out of ten people in the UK have not made a will and imploring them to do so to protect their loved ones.

Free wills services are often offered by insurers or pension providers, further eliminating the need for a solicitor.

Additionally, making a will without a solicitor suits those who prefer to handle private matters without involving a third party.

The Risks of DIY Wills

While seemingly convenient and cost-saving, DIY wills come with major risks such as unclear wording, incorrect witnessing or omissions that can make them invalid or spark disputes.

However, it’s encouraging to see that although there’s been a decline in consumers using solicitors for wills, in the UK power of attorney services are experiencing growing demand.

In the last year, there’s been a 4% increase in those using services like Power Of Attorney Online, which can offer a more affordable alternative to traditional high street solicitors.

These services still provide peace of mind that trusted individuals will be legally empowered to make important decisions when someone cannot manage their affairs, whether due to illness, injury or age-related decline.