Why you should instruct a lawyer to prepare your Will

Sam Wadham, Solicitor, July 2026

Why do you need a will?

Making a Will is one of the most important steps you can take to protect your loved ones and ensure your wishes are carried out after your death. Whether you own a home, have children, or simply want peace of mind, a valid Will gives you control over how your estate is managed and distributed.

What Happens If You Don't Have a Will?

If you die without a valid Will in New Zealand, your estate is distributed according to the law rather than your personal wishes. This may result in assets being shared in ways you never intended and can create unnecessary stress and delays for your family.

The Benefits of Having a Will

A professionally prepared Will allows you to:

• Decide who will inherit your assets.

• Appoint an executor to administer your estate.

• Nominate guardians for children under 18.

• Help reduce the risk of family disputes.

• Provide certainty and peace of mind for your loved ones.

Having clear legal instructions can make the estate administration process much simpler during an already difficult time.

When Should You Update Your Will?

Your will should be reviewed whenever your circumstances change, such as after marriage, separation, the birth of children, purchasing property, or significant changes to your financial situation. Even without major life events, reviewing your Will every few years helps ensure it continues to reflect your wishes.

Why Use a Lawyer?

While DIY Will kits are available, they may not address your individual circumstances or comply with New Zealand legal requirements. An experienced Wills and Estates lawyer can ensure your Will is legally valid, clearly drafted, and tailored to your needs.

Contact Our Wills and Estates Team

Creating a Will is one of the simplest ways to protect your family and your legacy. If you need a new Will or would like to update an existing one, our experienced Wills and Estates lawyers are here to help with practical legal advice and personalised estate planning solutions.