What You Need to Know
Many people are surprised to learn that getting married has a direct impact on the validity of a Will. Under English law, unless your Will is expressly made in contemplation of marriage, it will automatically be revoked when you marry. This could leave you without a valid Will and without control over how your estate is distributed.
At Harold G Walker Solicitors, we regularly help clients review their Wills to ensure remain valid and up to date, especially when their circumstances change.
Why Does Marriage Revoke a Will?
The law assumes that marriage changes your personal circumstances so significantly that your existing Will may no longer reflect your true intentions. To protect spouses, the default position is that your previous Will is cancelled when you marry, unless it specifically states that it was made in anticipation of marriage to your intended spouse.
What Happens If You Die Without a Valid Will?
If your Will has been revoked by marriage and you die without making a new one, your estate will be shared out according to the Rules of Intestacy. Unfortunately, this may not be what you would have wanted. For example:
- Your spouse will usually inherit most, if not all, of your estate.
- Children, stepchildren or other loved ones may receive far less than you intended, or even nothing at all.
This can cause unnecessary hardship and, in some cases, disputes within families.
Making a Will in Anticipation of Marriage
The good news is that you can make a Will before you get married which remains valid afterwards, as long as it includes the correct wording. This is known as a Will made in contemplation of marriage. It allows you to set out your wishes clearly and ensures they are protected both before and after your wedding day.
Why Choose Harold G Walker Solicitors?
Our team of experienced solicitors and legal professionals understand how life events can impact your estate planning. We provide straightforward and practical advice to help you:
- Check whether your existing Will is still valid.
- Make a new Will or update your current one in anticipation of marriage.
- Avoid future disputes and uncertainty for your family.
With offices in Wimborne, Broadstone, Verwood and Christchurch, we are proud to be a trusted local firm, supporting individuals and families across Dorset with expert legal advice.
Next Steps
If you are planning to marry, or if you have recently married, now is the perfect time to review your Will.
At Harold G Walker Solicitors, we can guide you through every stage of the process, giving you peace of mind that your estate is secure and your loved ones are taken care of.
📞 Contact our friendly team in Wimborne, Broadstone, Verwood or Christchurch today to arrange an appointment and make sure your Will reflects your wishes for the future.