Cost of a will

[saxy_jag]

How much, approximately, would it cost to have a solictor draw up a very simple will for my elderly mother? There are one or two specific items of sentimental value to be dealt with, and then the house etc would be sold and the proceeds split equally between my sister and me. We would be the only two benificiaries and we are the only children my mum has. Mum is disabled, so she'd probably need a solicitor to visit her at home.

We could do a DIY will, but Mum's not the most organised of people and it would probably get lost. Since my sis and I don't really get on, I wouldn't like either of us to have 'custody' of it.

[Ethel]

This is what happens if your mother dies without making a will - the rules of intestacy:

If you are not lawfully married, but have had children -

Your estate will be shared between the children. Should they die before you then their children would take their share.

If this does not cover your mother's wishes - expect to pay about �50.

[saxy_jag]

Actually, the rule of intestacy would be adequate - what would happen is what Mum wants to happen in any case, ie everything shared equally between my sis and me. However, Sis can be a tricky customer whose main interest in life is the acquisition of wealth. I don't want her having any excuse for a legal or financial argument after Mum's gone. Mum and I both think a will would be the best way to do things.

�50 or so wouldn't be a great deal to pay for the service. Thanks Ethel.

[themas]

If a solicitor needs to come out to the house it could well be more than �50, but it is very well worth it.

Your mother needs to think about who should be executors. As you and sister don't get on it might cause some friction if both of you were executors, but perhaps even more friction if only one of you was? But it is probably best not to have just a solicitor, because they are then in total control of what happens and when and you could find the process expensive and long drawn out.

[goldilocks12]

you can have a solicitor to visit your mum to do a will it will cost about �70.00 for a single will, dont be fooled by these low cost wills ie: advertised for �25.00. as sometimes it will cost you more in the longrun, once the will is made you can put it in your bank or a solicitor will hold it for your mum, make sure there is no charge for this service.
Hope this helps