Few areas of Wills law stir as much concern among practitioners as undue influence. The idea that a person’s last wishes could be threatened by another’s pressure strikes at the heart of testamentary freedom.
This article outlines the current law relating to stepchildren’s rights under Wills and intestacy, as well as their ability to claim provision from an estate under the Inheritance (Provision for Family and Dependants) Act 1975.
One of the most striking changes proposed in the Law Commission’s recent Final Report on Wills law is the recommendation that marriage or civil partnerships should no longer automatically revoke a Will.
The Society of Will Writers (SWW) Annual Conference 2025 brought together members, partners, and professionals from across the estate planning and private client sectors for two inspiring days at the Hilton East Midlands.
One of the most striking proposals in the Law Commission’s 2025 report is the potential introduction of a judicial dispensing power. This would give the court authority to declare a Will valid even where it does not meet all the required formalities, provided that it is satisfied the deceased intended the document to operate as their Will.
Testamentary capacity, the mental ability to make a valid Will, is one of the most fundamental concepts in Wills law.
This article explores what the chain of representation is, how it works, and what practical steps may need to be taken when an executor dies mid administration.
The way we live, work and communicate has undergone a digital revolution over the last 20 years, yet, in many respects, the law of Wills remains trapped in the 19th century. The Law Commission’s final report on Wills presents a range of proposals to bring the law up to date.
One particularly striking issue is whether children should be allowed to make Wills. At present, most cannot. But should that change?
The Society of Will Writers is a non-profit making self-regulatory organisation whose primary objectives are the advancement, education and ethical standards within the will writing profession.
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