Just married? You might have accidentally cancelled your Will – and 54% of people in Wales don’t know it

That’s the shocking finding from new research by Will Aid, which revealed 54% of people in Wales had no idea that tying the knot wipes the legal slate clean when it comes to Wills.

It means thousands of families could be left facing heartbreak and confusion, with estates divided under strict intestacy rules rather than according to personal wishes.

The law that catches people out

The rule isn’t new – it dates back to the Wills Act 1837 – but it’s still tripping people up nearly 200 years later.

Unless you make a new Will after marriage (or one that specifically states it’s “in contemplation of marriage”), your old Will is automatically revoked.

The Law Commission is currently reviewing the law, with draft reforms aimed at preventing so‑called “predatory marriages” – where someone marries with the intention of inheriting. But until any changes are passed, the rule still stands.

Why it matters

Legal experts say the consequences can be devastating.

Chris Adiole, Director at Penerley Solicitors, said:

“I often come across people who assume their existing Will continues to stand after they get married, and they’re genuinely surprised to learn that the law cancels it automatically. That can cause real problems for families, leaving everything up in the air at the worst possible time.”

Peter de Vena Franks, Campaign Director for Will Aid, added:

“It is shocking that so many people are unaware. This could mean children from a previous relationship are unintentionally disinherited, or that estates are distributed in a way the deceased never intended.”

What you should do

Will Aid is urging anyone who marries or remarries to make a new Will immediately if they want their estate to be passed on according to their wishes.

The charity’s annual campaign runs every November, when participating solicitors across the UK waive their usual fees to write basic Wills in exchange for a donation. Suggested donations are £120 for a single Will and £200 for a pair of mirror Wills, with all proceeds supporting charities including Age UK, British Red Cross, NSPCC, Shelter and Crisis.

Appointments are available now, either in person or remotely.

The takeaway:

If you’ve just said “I do” – your Will just said “I don’t.” Unless you write a new one, the law decides who gets what.

#law #LawCommission #legalAdvice #Marriage #solicitors #Will #WillAid #WillsAct

Llanelli law firm raises highest in Wales for charity Will-writing campaign

OLS Solicitors has supported Will Aid since 2019, dedicating their time and expertise to writing Wills and raising a grand total of £22,920. Instead of charging their usual fees for basic Wills, they invite clients to make a donation to Will Aid – helping to fund vital charity work in the UK and across the world. 

The funds raised go to Will Aid’s partner charities, which support a range of important causes, from providing humanitarian aid to protecting vulnerable children here in the UK. 

Lara Davies, from the firm, said: “Will Aid is an outstanding initiative, and we are delighted to have helped so many people to get a professionally written Will, all while raising a significant sum for charity. It’s truly a collective effort, and we’re immensely proud of the impact we’ve made this year. 

“Participating in this campaign is always fulfilling, but achieving the highest total in Wales for a second year makes it even more meaningful. The funds raised will have a genuine, positive impact on those in need, both locally and globally.” 

Since its launch in 1988, Will Aid has raised more than £24 million in donations, with millions more pledged in charitable legacies thanks to the generosity of participating solicitors. 

Lauren Poole, Chair of Will Aid, said: “A huge congratulations to the team for raising such an incredible amount this year. It’s inspiring to see so many solicitors giving their time and expertise to support our partner charities while helping people secure the peace of mind that comes with a professionally written Will.” 

Peter de Vena Franks, Will Aid’s Campaign Director, added: “This year’s Will Aid campaign has been another tremendous success, and it’s all down to the dedication of solicitors like those at OLS Solicitors. Their generosity and hard work are truly making a difference, not only for their clients but also for the charities that rely on these vital donations.” 

#Llanelli #OLSSolicitors #solicitors #WillAid