FAQs

This is one of the most common questions I’m asked!
The cost of your Will isn’t based on the value of your estate, but rather on the type of Will you need. For many people, a standard Single (or Mirror Wills for a couple) is sufficient. However, others may desire a higher level of protection, which involves more complex Wills — often incorporating Trusts — and these naturally cost more.

Examples of more complex Wills include:

• Wills that protect the value of your home from being lost (e.g. to care fees/remarriage)
• Wills that grant a loved one the right to live in a property without giving them ownership (a “right to occupy”)
• Discretionary Trust Wills designed for vulnerable or disabled beneficiaries
• Inheritance tax-efficient Wills such as Nil Rate Band Trust Wills or Business Property Wills

That’s exactly what I’m here to help with. I usually begin with a short, no-obligation phone call to understand your goals and what you want your Will to achieve. From there, I can offer tailored advice and provide you with a clear quote. You’re welcome to book a no-obligation appointment — either in person or via video call. If you decide not to go ahead, there’s absolutely no pressure.

I also offer a free Will-checking service. If you’re unsure whether your current Will is still suitable, I’ll happily review it for you. I’ve helped many clients avoid costly mistakes and unintended outcomes by identifying outdated or poorly drafted Wills. If your Will is over 5 years old, or your circumstances have changed, it’s a good idea to have it reviewed. Get in touch today — peace of mind starts with the right advice.

Western Wills is based in Exeter, Devon, but I work with clients across England and Wales, primarily through client video appointments. This allows me to offer a flexible, accessible service no matter where you’re located (please note I do not cover Scotland). For clients within a reasonable distance of Exeter, I also offer in-person home visits at a time that suits. Many people find this creates a more relaxed and comfortable environment for discussing their estate planning needs.

No, I’m not a solicitor — and you don’t need to be one to draft Wills or Lasting Powers of Attorney (LPAs).
I’m a fully experienced estate planner and member of the Society of Will Writers, a respected self-regulatory body for professionals in this field. I founded Western Wills in 2014 and gained additional experience working with an estate planning company prior to that.

As part of my ongoing commitment to professional standards, I undertake required Compulsory Personal Development (CPD) each year. I genuinely enjoy this, as it keeps me up to date with important legal and financial changes, such as updates to inheritance tax law that can affect my clients’ plans.

For your peace of mind, I also hold £2 million in professional indemnity insurance, which covers all the work I carry out on behalf of clients.

It is important for your protection that you use either a member of the Society of Will Writers (SoWW), Institute of Professional Will writers (IPW) or a solicitor to have your documents drafted.

At Western Wills, we make planning for the future simple, clear, and stress-free.

• Expert Guidance: Our experience means your wishes are captured accurately and legally.
• Personalised Service: We tailor every document to your unique circumstances. Exceptional customer service is important to us — when you’re happy, we’re happy too.
• Flexible Consultations: Meet us in person in Devon or remotely by phone or video. (Usually, no extra cost for home visits, unlike solicitors.)
• Peace of Mind: From drafting to updates, we can help. Keeping continuity with you, and also your family if needed.

I will arrange an appointment with you, which can take place at your home, office, or via video, depending on your location and preferences. Appointments are usually during daytime hours, but evening or weekend appointments can sometimes be arranged by prior agreement.

To make the most of our time together and ensure accuracy, it is helpful if you can provide relevant details in advance, such as the names and addresses of executors/ guardians.

I will need to see a form of identification that ideally includes your address, such as a driving licence. During our time together I will take your full instructions, answer any questions, and guide you through the process. You will be asked to sign our Terms and Conditions (you have a 14-day cooling-off period if you wish), and I will issue an invoice.

Once payment is made, I will provide an advisory letter and draft documents for your review. Following your approval, the final documents will be issued.

Yes, I can help you to do this, please see my website page Protective Property Trust for more details.

It is important to have lasting powers of attorney in place in case of loss of capacity, please see the information about LPAs under services, which talks about these important documents and the outcome without them.

Yes, definitely. This requires a Will that includes a Trust, with nominated trustees who will hold and manage the money for the beneficiary. Because there are important legal and financial considerations, this type of Will should be prepared by a professional to ensure it is done correctly and fully protects your beneficiary’s interests.

Yes. We’ll work with you to plan for key scenarios, such as passing away or losing capacity, ensuring your business and loved ones are protected.