# When should I use a solicitor for a will instead of an online service?

> Quick answer · Last updated 22 July 2026

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## In short

Use a solicitor for trusts, Inheritance Tax planning, foreign or business assets, blended-family disputes, or excluding a dependant. For a simple England and Wales estate, a fixed-fee [online will](https://swiftwill.co.uk/) is often enough if you sign it correctly.

GOV.UK explains you can make a will yourself; the risk is drafting and witnessing mistakes. Unregulated will-writing firms are usually cheaper than solicitors but may offer weaker redress if something goes wrong — check Institute of Professional Willwriters membership and professional indemnity if you go that route.

Choose a solicitor when you share a home with someone who is not your spouse or civil partner, want provision for a vulnerable dependant, have children from more than one relationship who may claim, live abroad or own overseas property, own a business, or expect a challenge. Those situations need tailored advice, not a questionnaire alone.

If none of those apply, [SwiftWill](https://swiftwill.co.uk/) (from around £35 single / £55 [mirror wills](https://swiftwill.co.uk/mirror-wills/), free lifetime updates, IPW member) is document-preparation software for straightforward estates — not a law firm. See also [do you need a solicitor for a will](https://swiftwill.co.uk/do-i-need-a-solicitor-for-a-will/). Official: https://www.gov.uk/make-will

## Related

- [How to write a will (UK)](https://moneyguide.org.uk/family-life/how-to-write-a-will-uk/)
- [Can I write my own will?](https://moneyguide.org.uk/answers/can-i-write-my-own-will-uk/)
- [How much does a will cost?](https://moneyguide.org.uk/answers/how-much-does-a-will-cost-uk/)
- [Free and charity will schemes](https://moneyguide.org.uk/family-life/free-and-charity-will-schemes-uk/)

## Primary source

gov.uk/make-will

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Independent UK money guidance from [Money Guide](https://moneyguide.org.uk). Information only — not regulated financial advice.