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The start of a new year is often a time for reflection and organisation. People review finances, set goals and plan ahead for themselves and their families. Yet one of the most important steps in personal planning is frequently overlooked: making, or reviewing, a Will.

As we move into 2026, changes in family structures, asset ownership and modern lifestyles make having an up-to-date Will more important than ever. A Will is not simply about distributing assets; it is about clarity, protection and peace of mind for those you leave behind.

Why so many people delay making a Will

Many people assume that making a Will is something to be dealt with later in life. Younger individuals often believe they do not yet have enough assets, while others assume their circumstances are straightforward and that the law will “sort things out”.

In reality, life can change quickly. Relationships evolve, property is purchased, children arrive, businesses are created and responsibilities increase. Without a valid Will in place, even modest estates can become complicated, time-consuming and stressful for families to manage.

Unexpected illness or accidents can happen at any age, and without proper planning, loved ones may be left facing legal uncertainty at an already difficult time.

The modern estate is more complex than many realise

An estate is not limited to property and savings. It can include personal belongings, investments, pensions, business interests, insurance policies and increasingly, digital assets such as online accounts, photographs and cryptocurrency.

In recent years, there has also been a rise in blended families, second marriages and cohabiting couples. These changes make it especially important to record your wishes clearly. Unmarried partners have no automatic right to inherit under intestacy rules, regardless of how long they have lived together. Stepchildren and estranged relatives may also be affected in ways you did not intend.

Marriage and separation can have significant legal consequences too. A new marriage automatically revokes an existing Will unless it was made in contemplation of that marriage. Conversely, separation alone does not invalidate a Will, meaning an estranged spouse could still inherit unless the Will is updated.

What happens if you do not have a Will

If you die without a valid Will, your estate will be distributed according to the rules of intestacy. These rules are fixed and do not take personal relationships, intentions or family dynamics into account.
This can lead to outcomes that would not reflect your wishes, delays in administering the estate and additional costs for your family. In some cases, loved ones may receive nothing at all, while decisions about guardianship of children are left to the courts.

How a Will protects those you care about

A properly drafted Will allows you to decide who benefits from your estate and in what proportions. It enables you to appoint executors you trust to administer your affairs and, where relevant, to name guardians for children under 18.
A Will can also make provision for pets, ensuring they are cared for in the way you would want, and can include guidance on funeral wishes to ease the burden on family members.

Contrary to popular belief, an effective Will does not need to be lengthy or overly complex. In many cases, a clear and carefully drafted document provides far greater protection than a complicated one filled with unnecessary legal language.

Why 2026 is the right time to act

Treating a Will as part of your wider “life admin” for 2026 makes the process feel manageable and purposeful. Whether you are making a Will for the first time or reviewing an existing one, the new year provides a natural opportunity to ensure your arrangements reflect your current circumstances and future intentions.

A Will is one of the few legal documents that offers long-term reassurance with relatively little ongoing maintenance. Once it is in place, it can simply be reviewed as life changes.

How we can help

At Murria Solicitors, our experienced Wills and Estate Planning team provides clear, practical advice tailored to your personal circumstances. We take the time to understand your family, assets and wishes, ensuring your Will is legally robust and easy to understand.

Whether your affairs are straightforward or complex, we aim to make the process approachable and stress-free, giving you confidence that everything is properly in order.

If making or reviewing a Will is on your list for 2026, contact our expert team today for professional advice and peace of mind.