Common mistakes with DIY wills

The number of DIY wills have increased in recent times but you need to check that they are correct.

The common mistakes made when making a DIY will are:

• Witnesses signing the document but not printing their name and address
  This means they are unknown and unable to be contacted if witness statements are needed

• Inelligible handwriting
  DIY wills are often handwritten and if it’s difficult to read then it could be difficult to interpret the wishes documented in the will

• Copying another will
  Some people use another’s a template to draft their wills. The issue is where specific clauses in one will do not apply to another. This could cause the will to be challenged or be invalid

• Failure to consider international aspects
  If assets are deemed to be international, consideration needs to be given if English law should be applied and this will need to be detailed in the will

• Invalid witnesses
  Many people are unaware TWO witnesses are required to validate a will. Neither of which can be a beneficiary or married to a beneficiary

Although DIY wills cost less they can incur additional costs later down the line where some of the issues above are encountered.

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