As one in three UK adults relies on future inheritance to stay financially dependent and out of debt, it is crucial to plan for your future finances.
However, with rising probate delays, family disputes and complex intestacy rules, fears could arise that your inheritance could arrive later than expected or not at all.
Our Private Client Associate Solicitor, Louise Welch, explains the importance of carefully planning your Will.
Why are probate delays and disputes rising?
According to figures from the Ministry of Justice, probate disputes reaching court have increased by 37 per cent in the past decade.
With cases taking longer than a year to settle, administrative backlogs and rising contention over Wills mean that families are waiting longer for funds.
Level’s Group’s recent report in 2025 highlights that more than half of UK adults expect to receive an inheritance in the next 20 years and 38 per cent are willing to contest a Will if they feel unfairly treated.
With emotions and finances intertwined, careful estate planning has never been more important and we can help support you.
What are the causes of probate delays?
There are several factors that can contribute to long probate timelines, which could be as simple as a lack of a valid or up-to-date will.
This could result in legal scrutiny and months of correction, so it is important to make sure all paperwork is complete and your financial records are safely organised.
If your Will is more complex and includes estates, such as foreign assets or business interests, you can consult our legal advice on how different legal systems and tax implications will affect these.
What is the cost of dying without a will?
One of the biggest risks families face is when a member dies without a valid Will and assets are distributed under a strict legal hierarchy.
These may not reflect your personal wishes and can leave unmarried partners, stepchildren and close friends excluded entirely and financially vulnerable.
It is important to make sure your family are protected in your Will and to avoid legal disputes that can cost time and money, we can help you keep your affairs in order.
How can you protect your estate?
Proactive estate planning can help reduce stress for your loved ones and carry out your wishes efficiently.
Our team can help you create a clear and comprehensive Will that is legally sound, as well as helping you keep it updated.
Reviewing your Will after major life events, such as the birth of children, is essential and it is important to know that if you do get married, your existing Will becomes void.
Unless you have a Will in contemplation of your marriage, updating your Will helps avoid your estate being distributed according to the Government’s rules of intestacy if you die.
Speaking clearly to your family and friends about your wishes can prevent disputes and if you feel unsure, seek our professional advice.
Why should you secure your life?
Estate planning is for anyone who wishes to protect what they have built and who they care for in their life.
With Inheritance Tax changes approaching, now is the time to take action and we are here to help.
The right plan can protect your wealth, minimise tax and give you peace of mind that your family and friends will be supported with the pain of probate delays.
If you seek support in establishing your Will and ensuring that your estate planning is clear, reach out to our team for guidance.