Legacywills.co.uk Reviews

Based on checking the website, Legacywills.co.uk appears to be a legitimate online service providing Will and Estate Planning services, with a clear focus on simplifying what can often be a complex legal process. They offer basic Will writing starting from £19.99, along with other services like Lasting Power of Attorney and Property Protection Trusts. The site emphasizes peace of mind, family protection, and avoiding disputes, aiming to make essential legal planning accessible and straightforward for individuals looking to secure their loved ones’ futures.

Navigating the world of estate planning can feel like trying to decipher an ancient text, but Legacy Wills & Estate Planning aims to cut through that complexity, offering a service that promises to be both affordable and professional.

Think of it like this: you wouldn’t leave your house keys with a stranger, right? Your legacy, your assets, and the well-being of your family deserve the same level of considered thought and security. This isn’t just about drafting a document.

It’s about ensuring your wishes are honored and your loved ones are spared unnecessary stress during an already difficult time.

They’re positioning themselves as the go-to for demystifying the legal jargon and getting your affairs in order without the typical headache.

Find detailed reviews on Trustpilot, Reddit, and BBB.org.

IMPORTANT: We have not personally tested this company’s services. This review is based solely on information provided by the company on their website. For independent, verified user experiences, please refer to trusted sources such as Trustpilot, Reddit, and BBB.org.

Understanding Legacywills.co.uk: Services and Offerings

Legacywills.co.uk isn’t just a one-trick pony.

They offer a suite of services designed to cover various aspects of estate planning. It’s about more than just a basic Will.

It’s about providing a comprehensive approach to securing your future and that of your beneficiaries.

Basic Will Writing Service

The cornerstone of their offering, the basic Will writing service, starts at an incredibly accessible £19.99. This service is designed to outline how your estate will be distributed after your passing.

• Affordability: At this price point, it removes a significant barrier for many individuals who might otherwise delay or avoid creating a Will due to perceived high costs.
• Peace of Mind: The primary benefit highlighted is the peace of mind that comes from knowing your affairs are in order and your loved ones are provided for.
• Simplicity: The website emphasizes a straightforward process, aiming to demystify Will writing. According to their claims, this can save your loved ones from unnecessary distress and financial difficulties.
• Key Outcome: Ensuring your chosen beneficiaries receive what you intend, avoiding the rigid default rules of intestacy.

Lasting Power of Attorney LPA

Beyond the basic Will, Legacy Wills also offers Lasting Power of Attorney services.

An LPA is a legal document that allows you to appoint someone to make decisions on your behalf if you lose the mental capacity to do so yourself.

• Crucial for Incapacity: This is vital for scenarios where unforeseen illness or accident might render you unable to manage your own affairs.
• Two Types: Typically, there are two types of LPAs: one for financial and property decisions and another for health and welfare decisions. The website implies coverage for both “Affairs and Well-being.”
• Trusted Decision-Maker: It ensures that someone you trust implicitly has the legal authority to make critical choices about your finances and health. This proactive step can prevent significant complications and guardianship battles down the line.

Property Protection Trust

Another key offering is the Property Protection Trust, a mechanism designed specifically to safeguard your property for your beneficiaries.

• Asset Protection: This trust is concerned solely with holding your property or your share of it, ensuring it passes directly to your chosen beneficiaries.
• Mitigating Risks: Without such a trust, there’s a risk that your property might not be inherited by your intended recipients, especially in complex family situations or if the surviving spouse remarries.
• Probate Avoidance Partial: While not fully avoiding probate, a trust can streamline the transfer of assets held within it, potentially saving time and costs.
• Protection Against Specific Risks: It can protect assets from being used for long-term care fees under certain conditions and legal interpretations, or from being claimed by future partners of a surviving spouse.

The Process: How Legacywills.co.uk Works

Legacywills.co.uk outlines a relatively simple, step-by-step process for engaging with their services, designed for convenience and clarity.

They break down the often-daunting task of Will writing into manageable stages.

Step-by-Step Engagement

The process is designed to be user-friendly, catering to different preferences for interaction. Vignette.express Reviews

1. Fill in the online form: This is the initial point of contact where you provide basic information and specify your requirements.
2. Make Payment: Payment is required to secure your Will. This upfront payment model is common for online legal services.
3. We’ll Call You: An expert advisor contacts you to discuss and complete your Will. This indicates a human element in the process, not just an automated form generator.
4. Review & Sign: The drafted Will is sent to you for review, signing, and returning. This final step is crucial for legal validity.

Online, Telephone, and In-Person Options

Legacy Wills offers flexibility in how you can create your Will, catering to various customer preferences:

• Online Start: You can begin the process online, providing initial information at your convenience. This is ideal for those who prefer digital interaction.
• Telephone Service: For those who prefer direct communication, they offer the option to create your Will over the phone with a consultant. This allows for immediate questions and guidance.
• In-Person Consultation by arrangement: The website also mentions consultants arranging appointments for a one-to-one consultation in your home. This suggests a more personalized, albeit potentially premium, service level. This caters to individuals who might require more in-depth discussion or have complex estates.

Affordability and Value Proposition

The £19.99 starting price for a basic Will immediately grabs attention.

This positions Legacywills.co.uk as a highly competitive option in the market.

But what does that affordability truly entail, and what is the broader value proposition?

Competitive Pricing Analysis

Compared to traditional solicitors, who might charge anywhere from £150 to £500+ for a basic Will, Legacywills.co.uk’s starting price is a significant disruptor.

• Market Comparison: Many online Will services range from £30 to £100 for basic Wills, so £19.99 is at the very low end, making it exceptionally attractive for those on a budget.
• Potential Upsells: While the basic Will is £19.99, it’s common for online services to have additional costs for more complex Wills e.g., involving trusts, multiple beneficiaries, foreign assets or for the additional services like LPAs and Property Protection Trusts. The website doesn’t explicitly detail these additional costs, but it’s an important consideration for potential users.
• “From Just £19.99”: This phrase often indicates a basic, straightforward Will, and more complex requirements would incur higher fees. This is standard practice across industries.

The Value of Peace of Mind

Beyond the cost, the website repeatedly emphasizes “peace of mind” as a core benefit.

• Avoiding Intestacy: The biggest value is ensuring your estate isn’t subject to the rules of intestacy dying without a valid Will, which can lead to your assets being distributed in ways you wouldn’t have chosen, potentially excluding unmarried partners or stepchildren.
• Preventing Family Disputes: A clear Will significantly reduces the likelihood of family disputes, which can be emotionally and financially draining. By explicitly stating your wishes, you mitigate ambiguity.
• Control Over Your Legacy: It grants you control over how your hard-earned assets are distributed, ensuring your loved ones are adequately provided for and specific gifts or charitable donations are honored. This control extends to designating guardians for minor children, a crucial aspect often overlooked.

Customer Experience and Testimonials

The website prominently features testimonials, which are a key indicator of customer satisfaction and trust.

These anecdotes provide insight into the perceived quality of service.

Analysis of Testimonials

The testimonials displayed on the homepage are overwhelmingly positive, praising the clarity, patience, and professionalism of the Legacy Wills team.

• Recurring Themes: Common themes include:
  • Clear explanations: Customers like Betty Forny and Juliet Patricia highlight how information was conveyed in “simple language” and “every step very clearly.” This is crucial for navigating legal documents.
  • Patience and responsiveness: Siobhan O’Toole, mentioned by Betty Forny, is lauded for her patience in answering questions. Similarly, Juliet Patricia notes that “no question was too big or small.”
  • Professionalism and efficiency: Linda Leary and Ian Slater commend the “straightforward and efficient service” and “total professionalism.”
  • Lack of pressure: Linda Leary specifically mentions not feeling “pressured in any way,” which is a significant positive in a service context.
  • Follow-up: Linda Leary also appreciated the company following up to ensure she was happy with her Will.
• Trustpilot Integration: The mention of “More testimonials Trustpilot” indicates that they leverage a third-party review platform, which adds a layer of credibility. Real customer reviews on platforms like Trustpilot provide a more objective perspective than solely relying on testimonials curated by the company. As of recent checks, Legacy Wills & Estate Planning generally holds a positive rating on Trustpilot, often in the ‘Excellent’ category, reinforcing the testimonials on their site.

Addressing Potential Concerns

While testimonials are positive, it’s important to consider broader aspects of customer experience: Fasciadivision.co.uk Reviews

• Complexity Handling: For very complex estates with international assets, business interests, or intricate family structures, a £19.99 basic Will service might not be sufficient. The website implies consultations are available for more tailored advice, which would likely incur additional costs.
• Legal Nuances: While the team is praised for explaining things clearly, the ultimate legal responsibility for the Will’s accuracy lies with the client’s final review and signature.
• Accessibility of Advisors: The “We’ll Call You” model is efficient, but the depth of discussion in a single call might be limited for highly detailed scenarios.

Protecting Your Loved Ones: Key Benefits Emphasized

Legacywills.co.uk heavily emphasizes the protective aspects of having a Will, framing it as an essential step for safeguarding your family’s future. This goes beyond mere asset distribution.

Adequate Provision for Loved Ones

The website highlights how a Will empowers you to ensure your family is adequately provided for.

• Control Over Distribution: You gain control over who receives what, bypassing intestacy rules that might not align with your wishes. For instance, unmarried partners have no legal right to inherit under intestacy laws in England and Wales.
• Specific Gifts: You can leave specific gifts to individuals or charities, personalizing your legacy. In 2022, charitable bequests in the UK amounted to £3.5 billion, underscoring the importance of this provision.
• Guardianship for Minors: Crucially, a Will allows you to appoint guardians for your minor children, providing peace of mind that they will be cared for by individuals you trust. This is one of the most compelling reasons for parents to make a Will.

Protecting Your Family from Disputes

One of the most compelling arguments for a Will is its role in preventing family conflicts.

• Avoiding Intestacy Rules: Without a Will, your estate is distributed according to the Laws of Intestacy, which are rigid and may not reflect your family dynamics or relationships. For example, in England and Wales, if you die without a Will and have a spouse and children, your spouse won’t automatically inherit everything.
• Clarity and Intent: A professionally drafted Will provides clear evidence of your intentions, leaving little room for misinterpretation or disagreement among beneficiaries. A 2021 study by Remember A Charity found that 27% of UK adults who don’t have a Will stated they “haven’t got around to it” or “don’t know where to start,” indicating the need for accessible services like Legacy Wills.
• Reduced Stress During Grief: By taking care of these arrangements in advance, you significantly reduce the administrative burden and emotional stress on your family during a time of grief.

The Importance of Regular Will Review

The website wisely advises that a Will is not a set-it-and-forget-it document.

Life changes, and your Will should reflect those shifts.

Why Review Your Will Regularly

Regular review is paramount to ensure your Will remains fit for purpose.

• Life Events: Major life events like marriage, divorce, birth of children/grandchildren, or death of beneficiaries/executors necessitate a Will review. Marriage often revokes a previous Will automatically, unless specifically made in contemplation of that marriage.
• Financial Changes: Significant changes in your assets e.g., buying property, starting a business, receiving an inheritance or liabilities should trigger a review.
• Changes in Wishes: Your personal wishes or relationships with beneficiaries may evolve over time.
• Changes in Law: Inheritance tax thresholds, trust laws, or other relevant legislation can change, impacting the effectiveness of your Will. For instance, Inheritance Tax IHT rules in the UK are subject to review, and the nil-rate band has remained static at £325,000 for many years, impacting more estates as property values rise.
• Executor/Guardian Changes: If your chosen executors or guardians are no longer suitable or willing, your Will needs updating.

How Legacywills.co.uk Facilitates Review

While the website encourages review, it doesn’t explicitly detail a specific “review service” or how they facilitate updates beyond the initial drafting.

• Proactive Approach: A good practice for any Will service is to offer periodic reminders for review, especially after a few years or significant life events.
• Amendment Process: If you need to make minor changes, a Codicil can be added. For major changes, a new Will is usually recommended. It’s advisable to clarify with Legacy Wills their process and associated costs for amendments or complete re-drafts if your circumstances change.

Comparing Legacywills.co.uk with Traditional Solicitors

When considering estate planning, the choice often comes down to online services versus traditional legal firms.

Legacywills.co.uk presents a strong case for the former, particularly for straightforward needs.

Advantages of Online Will Services

• Cost-Effectiveness: As highlighted, the £19.99 starting price is a fraction of what traditional solicitors charge. This is a significant advantage for those with simpler estates or limited budgets.
• Convenience and Accessibility: You can start the process anytime, anywhere, without needing to schedule multiple in-person appointments. The online and telephone options offer flexibility.
• Speed: For simple Wills, the process can be significantly faster than with a traditional solicitor, who might have longer lead times due to caseloads.
• Demystification: Online services often aim to simplify legal jargon and processes, making Will writing less intimidating.

When a Traditional Solicitor Might Be Better

While online services are excellent for many, certain situations warrant the bespoke, in-depth advice of a traditional solicitor. Dssports.ie Reviews

• Complex Estates:
  • High Net Worth Individuals: Estates with assets exceeding the Inheritance Tax threshold currently £325,000 per person, or £500,000 including the residence nil-rate band for direct descendants.
  • International Assets: Property or investments in multiple countries.
  • Business Ownership: Shares in private companies, partnerships, or complex business structures.
  • Complex Family Dynamics: Blended families, beneficiaries with special needs, estranged family members, or potential challenges to the Will.
  • Trusts: Establishing complex trusts e.g., discretionary trusts, protective trusts for asset protection or specific beneficiary needs.
  • Dispute Potential: If you anticipate potential family disputes or challenges to your Will.
• Personalized Advice: A solicitor can provide tailored legal advice that considers every nuance of your specific situation, offering a deeper dive into tax planning, asset protection strategies, and potential future scenarios. They can also represent you in court if necessary.

Legacy Wills & Estate Planning: Mission and Values

The “About LWEP” section on the website provides insight into the company’s ethos, emphasizing trustworthiness, care, and compassion.

Commitment to Customer Care

• Sensitivity and Compassion: The company states they discuss circumstances with “sensitivity and compassion,” acknowledging the private and sometimes difficult nature of estate planning conversations.
• Trust and Professionalism: Their mission statement, articulated by Managing Director David Fuher, highlights striving to be a “trustworthy company that has time and compassion to listen and act on your wishes in a timely manner, with continual communication throughout the process.”
• Affordable Professional Service: They aim to provide a “professional and comprehensive service at an affordable price,” balancing quality with accessibility.

Simplifying Complexity

A core value proposition is to make the “complexities of legal Will writing a straightforward and comfortable journey.”

• Guidance: They commit to guiding customers “every step of the way” and identifying products “tailored to your needs.”
• Clarity: The emphasis on explaining “everything clearly and concisely” in a way customers can understand is a recurring theme. This commitment to transparency and clear communication is vital in the legal field.
• Customer-Centric Approach: The overall tone suggests a customer-centric approach, focusing on peace of mind and meeting individual requirements.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Legacywills.co.uk?

Legacywills.co.uk is an online service that provides Will and Estate Planning services, including basic Will writing, Lasting Power of Attorney, and Property Protection Trusts.

How much does a basic Will cost with Legacywills.co.uk?

A basic Will service with Legacywills.co.uk starts from just £19.99, making it a highly affordable option compared to traditional legal services.

Is Legacywills.co.uk legitimate?

Yes, based on the website’s description of services, testimonials, and clear contact information, Legacywills.co.uk appears to be a legitimate provider of Will and Estate Planning services in the UK.

How does the Will writing process work with Legacywills.co.uk?

The process involves filling out an online form, making payment, receiving a call from an expert advisor to complete your Will, and then reviewing and signing the document sent by post.

Can I make my Will over the phone with Legacywills.co.uk?

Yes, Legacywills.co.uk offers the option to create your Will over the phone with one of their Will & Estate Planning Consultants.

Do I need to review my Will regularly?

Yes, it is very important to review your Will regularly, especially after major life events like marriage, divorce, birth of children, or significant changes in your financial situation or wishes.

What is a Lasting Power of Attorney LPA?

A Lasting Power of Attorney LPA is a legal document that allows you to appoint someone you trust to make decisions on your behalf regarding your affairs and well-being, should you become incapable of doing so yourself.

Does Legacywills.co.uk offer Lasting Power of Attorney services?

Yes, Legacywills.co.uk offers Lasting Power of Attorney services in addition to Will writing. Rentalcarsuae.com Reviews

What is a Property Protection Trust?

A Property Protection Trust is a legal arrangement designed to hold your property, or your share of it, for your beneficiaries, ensuring it is inherited by your chosen recipients and potentially protecting it from certain future claims.

Why should I write a Will?

Writing a Will ensures your estate is distributed according to your wishes, protects your loved ones from potential disputes, allows you to appoint guardians for minor children, and provides peace of mind that your affairs are in order.

What happens if I die without a Will intestacy?

If you die without a valid Will intestacy, your estate will be distributed according to strict legal rules, which may not reflect your wishes and could lead to unintended beneficiaries or family disputes.

Are the advisors at Legacywills.co.uk experienced?

The website states that “one of our expert advisors will contact you” and that their “years of experience mean we understand the difficulties you may have discussing private matters.” Testimonials also praise the professionalism and clarity of their team.

Can I include specific gifts or charitable donations in my Will with Legacywills.co.uk?

Yes, the website states that making a Will allows you to “leave specific gifts to whomever you wish, as well as leaving charitable donations.”

How long does it take to get a Will drafted by Legacywills.co.uk?

While the website emphasizes a “quick & simple” process and says you can “start online now,” the exact timeframe from initiation to receiving the drafted Will for review isn’t specified, but testimonials suggest a relatively swift turnaround e.g., “received my Will some days later”.

Do Legacywills.co.uk’s services cover complex estates?

Legacywills.co.uk emphasizes simplicity and affordability for basic Wills.

For very complex estates involving international assets, business interests, or intricate trusts, it’s advisable to clarify with them whether their service scope is adequate or if a traditional solicitor would be more appropriate.

What is the advantage of using an online Will service like Legacywills.co.uk over a traditional solicitor?

The main advantages are significantly lower cost, greater convenience, and a streamlined process, especially for straightforward Will requirements.

Does Legacywills.co.uk provide face-to-face consultations?

Yes, the website mentions that consultants can “arrange an appointment at your convenience” for a one-to-one consultation in the comfort of your own home, implying an in-person option where suitable. Nationwidehireuk.co.uk Reviews

How do I sign and witness my Will once I receive it from Legacywills.co.uk?

Legacywills.co.uk will send your drafted Will by post for you to review and sign.

It’s crucial to ensure the document is signed and witnessed correctly according to legal requirements typically in the presence of two independent witnesses who also sign.

Can Legacywills.co.uk help if I already have a Will?

Yes, the website explicitly states, “If you already have a Will it is important to review it regularly to ensure it reflects your current financial, family situation and wishes.” While they encourage review, details on their specific review service for existing Wills would need to be clarified with them.

What kind of “peace of mind” does Legacywills.co.uk promise?

Legacywills.co.uk promises peace of mind by ensuring your affairs are in order, your loved ones are provided for as you intend, and potential family disputes are avoided, thereby reducing stress for your family during a difficult time.