How to Choose a Solicitor for Complex Multi-Generational Will Planning

In modern families, where remarriages, blended households, and dependents across different age groups are increasingly common, planning a will that spans multiple generations has become essential. This guide walks you through selecting the right solicitor to safeguard your estate and secure your legacy for years to come.

Why Multi-Generational Will Planning Matters

Family structures today are far more varied than in the past, often involving stepchildren, cohabiting partners, or beneficiaries living abroad. A simple will may not fully capture these realities, potentially leading to disputes or unintended exclusions. A solicitor with experience in multi-generational estates can help balance fairness, manage inheritance tax effectively, and protect the long-term interests of all beneficiaries.

How a Solicitor Supports Complex Estates

For families with complicated arrangements, an experienced solicitor can offer:

         Tailored Inheritance Solutions – Structuring fair distributions among children from different relationships, ensuring no one is left out unintentionally.

         Trust Planning – Setting up discretionary or life interest trusts for minors, vulnerable beneficiaries, or those with disabilities.

         Tax Efficiency – Employing strategies to reduce inheritance tax, such as charitable bequests or using the nil-rate band effectively.

         International Expertise – Managing overseas assets or heirs while ensuring compliance with international inheritance laws.

When to Seek a Specialist Will Solicitor

Consider engaging a specialist if:

         You are remarried or in a second civil partnership.

         You have children from different relationships.

         You support adult dependents or a child with special needs.

         You own companies, rental properties, or foreign investments.

         You intend to leave assets to grandchildren or set conditional inheritances.

In such cases, generic will templates or DIY options are rarely sufficient.

Finding the Right Solicitor for Complex Family Situations

When evaluating solicitors, focus on:

         Specialised Knowledge – Ensure they are well-versed in estate planning rather than general legal services.

         Professional Credentials – Membership in organisations like STEP (Society of Trust and Estate Practitioners) or The Law Society’s Private Client Section adds credibility.

         Relevant Experience – Ask about past cases involving blended families, international holdings, or contested wills.

         Clear Communication – Choose someone who can explain intricate legal issues in plain language.

The ideal solicitor should also act as a neutral advisor to help reduce family tensions.

Fees for Complex Will Services

Specialised wills generally cost more due to their complexity. Common price ranges include:

         Complex Will Drafting – £500–£900 for individuals or couples.

         Trust Establishment – £1,000–£2,500 depending on the number of trusts and estate value.

         Additional Services – Powers of attorney, lifetime gifting, and tax planning may incur extra costs.

Always request a written fee proposal. Many solicitors also offer fixed-fee arrangements for greater cost transparency.

What to Organise Before Meeting Your Solicitor

Being prepared will streamline the process and improve accuracy. Collect:

         Comprehensive Asset List – Properties, savings, pensions, life insurance policies, and business holdings.

         Beneficiary Information – Names, ages, relationships, and the intended share for each.

         Dependent Care Plans – Guardianship or financial provisions for minors or vulnerable adults.

         Executor Options – Trusted individuals, with the possibility of appointing a professional co-executor.

         Family History – Details of previous marriages, estranged relatives, or sensitive family matters.

Questions to Ask During the Consultation

To ensure the solicitor is the right fit, ask:

         How do you address inheritance arrangements for blended families?

         Can you assist in minimising inheritance tax or planning for potential care costs?

         Do you provide regular reviews of wills?

         What happens if my circumstances change significantly?

         How are your ongoing services priced?

FAQs

Can I include conditions in my will?
Yes, conditions such as minimum age or educational requirements can be included. A solicitor will ensure these are legally enforceable.

Will my will cover assets abroad?
Not necessarily. Properties or assets in other countries may require separate wills. A specialist solicitor can coordinate cross-border arrangements.

What if my will is contested?
A carefully written will with detailed notes from your solicitor greatly reduces the risk of disputes.

Conclusion

For families with complicated relationships and assets, a carefully structured multi-generational will is essential. Selecting a solicitor who understands both the legal and personal aspects of your estate ensures your wishes are respected and your loved ones are protected. Proper planning now provides lasting security and peace of mind for you and future generations.