Modernising Wills Law

How Hawkins Ryan Solicitors Leads the Way in Navigating Change

On 16 May 2025, the Law Commission published its landmark Modernising Wills Law report, accompanied by a draft Bill proposing to replace the Wills Act 1837 with a new, modern legal framework. This comprehensive review aims to bring wills law into the 21st century, reflecting societal, technological, and medical advances, while strengthening protections for testators and preserving testamentary freedom, the cornerstone of succession law.

At Hawkins Ryan Solicitors, based in King’s Lynn and serving a diverse client base including many from rural Norfolk, we are acutely aware of the significance of these reforms. Our firm prides itself on being progressive, insightful, and a trusted expert in wills and estate planning. We welcome these changes and stand ready to guide our clients confidently through the evolving legal landscape.

Why Modernising Wills Law Matters

The law governing wills has remained largely unchanged since Victorian times, anchored in the Wills Act 1837. However, the realities of modern life have outpaced this framework. People live longer, often with complex health issues affecting mental capacity. Estates are more varied and valuable, frequently including digital assets. The traditional paper-based processes no longer reflect how people live and plan their affairs.

The Law Commission’s report addresses these challenges head-on. It proposes 31 recommendations focused on:

Supporting testamentary freedom: ensuring individuals can clearly express their wishes about their estate.

Protecting testators from undue influence and fraud: vital for vulnerable clients.

Increasing clarity and certainty in the law: reducing disputes and confusion.

Embracing technology: notably by formally recognising electronic wills with appropriate safeguards.

Harmonising mental capacity tests: applying the modern Mental Capacity Act 2005 standard uniformly.

Hawkins Ryan Solicitors: Your Go-To Experts in Wills and Estate Planning

These reforms represent a pivotal moment for legal professionals advising on wills. At Hawkins Ryan, we have long anticipated the need for modernisation and have invested in developing expertise that aligns with these changes. Our team is fully versed in the Law Commission’s recommendations and the implications for clients. 

We understand that making a will is one of the most important legal acts a person can undertake. It is not just about asset distribution but about peace of mind, protecting loved ones, and ensuring wishes are honoured. Our approach combines professionalism, empathy, and clarity, helping clients navigate complex issues such as:

Drafting wills that reflect modern family structures and digital assets.

Advising on testamentary capacity and safeguarding vulnerable clients.

Implementing electronic wills securely as the law evolves.

Planning for potential disputes with clear, robust documentation.

By staying ahead of legislative reforms, Hawkins Ryan ensures that our clients receive advice that is not only legally sound but also future-proof. We are committed to guiding individuals, families, and businesses through these changes with confidence and care.

What This Means for Our Clients and Community

For our clients in King’s Lynn and the wider Norfolk rural community, these reforms promise greater accessibility and security in will-making. The recognition of electronic wills, for example, could make estate planning more convenient, especially for those with mobility challenges or living remotely. 

Moreover, clearer rules and stronger protections help reduce the risk of disputes and unintended consequences, which is crucial in close-knit rural communities where family relationships are deeply valued.

Conclusion

The Modernising Wills Law report marks a transformative step in succession law, and Hawkins Ryan Solicitors is proud to be at the forefront of this change. Our expertise, combined with our commitment to integrity, client focus, and excellence, makes us the trusted partner for wills and estate planning in King’s Lynn and beyond.

If you would like to discuss how these reforms may affect your estate planning or require expert advice tailored to your circumstances, please contact Hawkins Ryan Solicitors. We are here to help you secure your legacy with confidence.

For more information, you can view the full Law Commission report here: https://lawcom.gov.uk/publication/modernising-wills-final-report/

Andrew Stevenson

Partner