Can I make a will for someone else?
Platform
No, each person must make their own will themselves. You cannot make a will on behalf of another person.
Why this rule exists:
For a will to be valid, the person making it (the testator) must:
- Have mental capacity to understand what they're doing
- Act voluntarily without pressure or undue influence
- Make their own decisions about their estate
- Sign the will themselves (or direct someone to sign in their presence)
If someone else makes the will for you, it could be challenged as not reflecting your true wishes.
How you can help:
- Sit with them: You can sit beside someone while they create their will, offering support
- Explain things: You can help them understand the questions
- Type for them: If they have difficulty typing, you can type their answers while they tell you what to say
- Technical help: You can help with the computer/technology
But ultimately, all decisions must be theirs, and they must understand what they're doing.
What if someone lacks capacity?
If someone doesn't have mental capacity to make a will, they cannot make one through our service. In such cases, the Court of Protection can sometimes authorize a 'statutory will' on their behalf through a formal legal process.