Changing a Will

Can I Change My Will?

Yes, at any time, provided you have mental capacity and are not acting under pressure from anyone else. There are two recognised ways to do it: a formal codicil for minor amendments, or making an entirely new Will, which in most cases we recommend, since it is cleaner and avoids the ambiguity informal, handwritten changes can create. You should never cross out text, write amendments by hand, or sign additions directly onto an existing Will; changes made that way are likely to be invalid.

Codicil or New Will: Which Do You Need?

As a general rule, one small change favours a codicil; more than one change, or any significant life event, points to a new Will. We will tell you plainly which applies once we know what you want to change.

How to Change a Will: The Process

Changing a Will with Nelsons follows a clear, efficient process, and most updates are completed within two to three weeks.

1. Initial consultation: We discuss your current Will and new circumstances, and advise plainly whether a codicil or new Will suits you, typically 30 to 60 minutes.
2. Drafting: We draft the update precisely, flagging anything that could create an unintended tax consequence or a ground for challenge.
3. Review: You review the wording with us until you are completely satisfied — a Will that does not say exactly what you mean causes problems later.
4. Execution: We arrange correct signing in front of two independent witnesses, the single most common reason Wills are later found invalid if done incorrectly.
5. Storage: We store your updated Will securely and can register it with the National Will Register so your executors can find it when needed.

Most updates complete within two to three weeks; straightforward codicils are often quicker.

Why Choose Nelsons for Changing a Will

Whether it is a simple codicil or a full rewrite, here is why clients trust us to get it right.

• Specialist, Everyday Experience: Our Wills and Probate team handles hundreds of Will amendments a year, from a simple codicil to a full estate restructure, bringing the same care to both.
• Independently Recognised: Ranked in The Legal 500 for Private Client work, an independent assessment of the advice our team provides.
• Transparent Fixed Fees: We quote a clear fixed fee before any work begins.
• Three East Midlands Offices: Face-to-face appointments in Derby, Leicester and Nottingham, plus telephone and video appointments where that suits you better.

Ready to Update Your Will?

If your circumstances have changed, don’t put it off — an outdated Will can produce consequences that are difficult, or impossible, to reverse after you have died.

Call 0800 024 1976 or complete our online enquiry form.