---
title: Do I Really Need a Will?
description: How to start divorce proceedings in the UK
image: https://blog.odt.co.uk/hubfs/image-png-2.png
---

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 Jul 8, 2025 11:51:37 AM

# Do I Really Need a Will?

![Picture of Holly Knight](https://blog.odt.co.uk/hs-fs/hubfs/holly-knight.png?width=50&name=holly-knight.png) [Holly Knight](https://blog.odt.co.uk/author/holly-knight)

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**Do I *Really* Need a Will? (Spoiler: Yes, You Do)**

We get it, writing a will isn’t top of your weekend plans. But whether you’re 25 or 85, single, married, a parent, or a homeowner, a will is one of the most important things you can do for your loved ones (and your peace of mind).

**💼 What’s the Point of a Will?**

Without one, the law decides who gets what, not you. That means:

- People you care about might get *nothing*
- Your estate could end up with distant relatives, or the state
- Family disputes are far more likely

A will puts **you** in control.

**👶 Got Kids? You Need a Will**

You can:

- Appoint legal guardians
- Choose who raises your children
- Prevent the courts from deciding for you

That alone is a game-changer for any parent.

**💰 Want to Cut Inheritance Tax?**

A professionally drafted will can:

- Maximise your tax-free allowances
- Reduce liability with gifts to charity
- Save your loved ones money and stress

Even smaller estates can benefit from smart tax planning.

**❤️ Protect Your Partner (Especially if You’re Unmarried)**

If you're not married or in a formal civil partnership, your partner gets nothing under intestacy laws, unless you say otherwise in a will. Protect their:

- Right to your property
- Financial security
- Place in your shared home

**🤝 Avoid Family Fallout**

Clear instructions = fewer arguments. A well-written will:

- Reduces conflict
- Eases stress during a difficult time
- Ensures your wishes are respected

**✅ Pick Executors You Trust**

Your will lets you choose who’ll handle your estate, not leave it to a court. Appoint people you trust to get things done properly.

**🏡 Wills Aren’t Just for the Rich**

You should have one if you:

- Own a home or savings
- Have kids or dependents
- Are in a long-term relationship
- Run a business or have investments

![](https://blog.odt.co.uk/hs-fs/hubfs/image-png-Jun-30-2025-02-34-39-7026-PM.png?width=416&height=238&name=image-png-Jun-30-2025-02-34-39-7026-PM.png)

 

**Let’s Make It Easy**

At ODT Solicitors, we make writing your will simple, affordable, and stress-free. No jargon, no fuss, just friendly legal help to get it done right.

[ODT Solicitors](https://blog.odt.co.uk/tag/odt-solicitors), [Solicitors](https://blog.odt.co.uk/tag/solicitors), [Advice](https://blog.odt.co.uk/tag/advice), [Legal Guardians](https://blog.odt.co.uk/tag/legal-guardians), [Executors](https://blog.odt.co.uk/tag/executors), [Will](https://blog.odt.co.uk/tag/will), [Last Will and Testament](https://blog.odt.co.uk/tag/last-will-and-testament)

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