Creating a legally valid will is one of the most responsible steps you can take to protect your loved ones and ensure your assets are distributed according to your wishes. Traditionally, people would visit a solicitor to have their will drafted, but times have changed. Today, many Australians are choosing to complete a will kit without a solicitor, thanks to its simplicity, accessibility, and cost-effectiveness https://yourwillandtestament.com/products/legal-will-kit.
In this guide, we’ll explore the key advantages of using a will kit independently, highlight best practices, and provide tips to ensure your will is legally valid and secure.
What Is a Will Kit?
A will kit is a do-it-yourself legal document package that allows individuals to draft their own will. These kits typically include:
- Step-by-step instructions
- Legal templates
- Sections to name executors and beneficiaries
- Witnessing guidelines
- Information on asset distribution
Will kits are ideal for people with straightforward estates who want to avoid the complexities and costs associated with legal representation.
Is It Safe to Complete a Will Kit Without a Solicitor?
Yes, it is entirely legal and safe to complete a will using a will kit without involving a solicitor—as long as the will meets the legal requirements set by your state or territory.
In Australia, a will is valid if it is:
- In writing (typed or handwritten)
- Signed by the person making the will (testator)
- Witnessed by two people who are not beneficiaries
- Created by someone over the age of 18 with full mental capacity
By following these legal guidelines, your DIY will can be just as valid and enforceable as one drafted by a lawyer.
Top Advantages of Completing a Will Kit Without a Solicitor
1. Affordability
Hiring a solicitor to prepare a will can cost hundreds, if not thousands, of dollars—especially for complex estates. In contrast, a will kit provides a low-cost alternative that achieves the same basic goal.
Financial benefits include:
- One-time purchase cost
- No consultation or hourly legal fees
- No recurring subscriptions or services
This makes will kits an attractive option for individuals with simple financial situations or limited budgets.
2. Convenience and Flexibility
Using a will kit allows you to work at your own pace and in your own space. There’s no need to book appointments or coordinate schedules.
Convenience factors include:
- Available online or at local retailers
- Can be completed at home at any time
- Easy to revise or update without formal legal processes
This is particularly useful for people with busy lifestyles or those living in regional areas with limited access to legal services.
3. Full Control Over the Process
When you complete a will kit on your own, you maintain complete control over every detail. There’s no intermediary interpreting your instructions or influencing your decisions.
Control advantages:
- Direct input into every section of your will
- Greater privacy regarding your estate and beneficiaries
- Ability to revisit and revise content whenever needed
This autonomy can be empowering, especially for those who prefer a hands-on approach to personal planning.
4. Simplified Language and Instructions
Most will kits are written in plain language, making them accessible to users with no legal background. They often include examples, checklists, and definitions to guide you through each step.
Ease-of-use features:
- No legal jargon
- Clear, structured templates
- Helpful Q&A sections
This allows individuals to focus on their wishes rather than deciphering legal terminology.
5. Avoiding Unnecessary Legal Complexity
If your estate is simple and straightforward, hiring a solicitor may add unnecessary complexity. A will kit is designed for uncomplicated estates where:
- You have a small number of beneficiaries
- Your asset distribution is clear
- There are no disputes or legal claims expected
In these cases, a solicitor may not offer additional value beyond what a well-prepared will kit already provides.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Using a Will Kit Without a Solicitor
While there are many benefits, completing a will kit without a solicitor does come with risks if not executed properly. Be sure to avoid these common errors:
- Improper witnessing: Ensure two non-beneficiaries witness your signature correctly.
- Vague language: Be specific about names, relationships, and asset descriptions.
- Outdated information: Review and update your will after major life changes (marriage, divorce, birth of children).
- Poor storage: Keep your completed will in a secure, known location such as a fireproof safe or with a trusted executor.
Being thorough and attentive to these details will help ensure your will stands up in court if challenged.
When a Will Kit Might Not Be Enough
While a will kit is an excellent tool for many, there are situations where legal advice is strongly recommended:
- Blended families or estranged relatives
- International assets or dual citizenship
- Business ownership or complex trusts
- Desire to exclude specific individuals from inheritance
If your estate includes these elements, consulting a solicitor can provide an additional layer of legal protection and clarity.
Tips for Getting the Most Out of Your Will Kit
If you’re choosing to complete a will kit without a solicitor, here are some best practices to follow:
- Read all instructions carefully before filling anything out.
- Use full legal names to avoid ambiguity.
- Be specific with your wishes, including how and when assets should be distributed.
- Inform your executor and store your will in a safe but accessible place.
- Consider having it reviewed by a legal professional if you’re unsure about any part of it.
Following these tips ensures your will is clear, compliant, and easy for your loved ones to execute.
Key Takeaways
| Advantage | Description |
| Affordable | No solicitor fees or ongoing costs |
| Convenient | Complete at home, on your schedule |
| Private | No need to share personal details with a third party |
| Simple | Easy-to-follow templates and clear instructions |
| Flexible | Can be updated or rewritten as needed |
Completing a will kit without a solicitor empowers you to take control of your estate planning without the cost and formality of traditional legal services.
Final Thoughts
A will kit without a solicitor offers a smart, practical, and economical way to manage your estate—especially for those with clear wishes and uncomplicated assets. With the right approach and attention to detail, a DIY will can be just as valid and effective as one created in a law office.
Whether you’re preparing for the future or updating an existing will, taking this step ensures your loved ones are protected and your legacy is preserved. With so many tools at your fingertips, there’s never been a better time to take control of your estate planning—on your terms.