Questions people often ask.
Here are some of the questions we are commonly asked about Wills, Lasting Powers of Attorney, trusts and the way we work.
Making a Will
Information about our services and terms of business.
How long has HWT been established?
We established HWT in 2001 and have been helping clients make Wills for over 20 years.
How many meetings are usually involved in making a Will?
Making a Will with us usually involves two meetings. At the first meeting we take your detailed instructions. At the second meeting we provide the completed documentation for you to read through before signing, with queries and explanations dealt with.
How long does it take to prepare a Will?
Our terms state that final Wills are usually completed within 28 days from receipt of complete instructions, or as otherwise agreed. More complex instructions may involve a draft being sent to you before completion.
What do I need to tell HWT when making a Will?
Our terms explain that clients are expected to disclose all relevant facts and answer the questions asked so that accurate instructions can be taken and the Will prepared in accordance with those instructions.
Do I have to use HWT for other work that may be suggested?
No. Our terms say that where other documents or action may be recommended, any further fees will be explained in advance and you are under no obligation to proceed with ancillary services offered.
How often should my Will be reviewed?
We recommend that a Will is reviewed periodically, usually every 2–3 years, and following material changes such as marriage, divorce, the birth of children or a substantial inheritance.
Lasting Powers of Attorney
LPAs can help you choose who can act for you if you lose mental capacity.
What does a Lasting Power of Attorney do?
We explain that an LPA allows you to appoint trusted attorney(s) to look after your care and finances should you lose mental capacity.
How much does an LPA cost?
Our 2026 pricing lists Lasting Powers of Attorney at £300 each, including us acting as LPA certificate provider and LPA witness. An external fee of £92 per LPA is payable to the Office of the Public Guardian.
Trusts and specialist planning
We cover a range of planning options for particular family, property and business circumstances.
Can a Will include a trust?
Yes. We offer Complex Wills that usually include trusts to protect assets for chosen beneficiaries. Our services also include Protective Property Trust Wills and Vulnerable Persons Will Trusts.
Can HWT help protect an inheritance for a vulnerable person?
We can use a trust to protect money and property for a disabled or vulnerable relative or friend. We can also discuss flexible trust arrangements, trustees and the potential for special tax treatment where the relevant HMRC conditions are met.
Can HWT help with business succession planning?
We offer Business Protection Wills and can explain how business continuation clauses may help determine what happens to business interests or shareholdings after an owner's death. We can also discuss partnership agreements, shareholders' agreements and Inheritance Tax considerations.
What other specialist planning does HWT offer?
Our services include document storage, Protective Property Trust Wills, Vulnerable Persons Will Trusts, Business Protection Wills, Digital Legacy planning, Letters of Wishes and severance of a joint tenancy.
Fees, advice and your documents
Does HWT offer fixed fees?
Yes. We offer fixed fees for our services and explain the fee that applies to your circumstances before you proceed. Our current 2026 prices should still be confirmed with us before proceeding.
Does HWT provide tax, financial or legal advice?
Our terms state that we do not give tax, financial or legal advice. We provide information relating to Will preparation and recommend that you consult an Independent Financial Adviser, Accountant, Solicitor or other appropriate professional where advice outside our range is required.
What happens if there is an error in my Will before I sign it?
Our terms state that if we have made a mistake, it will be rectified before you sign your document(s).
Do I need to sign and witness my Will correctly?
Yes. Our terms state that a Will is not valid until it has been signed and witnessed correctly, and that execution must comply with the law of England and Wales. We also offer a chargeable Attestation Service to supervise signing and witnessing at your home.
Can HWT keep my documents?
We offer document storage at £60 annually as a way to keep important documents safe and ensure loved ones know where they are.
Every family and estate is different, and the appropriate planning will depend on your circumstances and the instructions you provide.