Why DIY Wills Fall Short: Dementia, Disputes & Defending Your Wishes 🧠✍️
30 June 2025 /
Dementia Is Rising—So Are Will Disputes
Dementia is one of the UK’s fastest-growing health challenges.
The NHS recently reported a record number of dementia diagnoses in England.
As our population ages, more families face not only the heartbreak of dementia but also unexpected legal battles over Wills.
Why does this matter?
Dementia affects a person’s ability to make clear, informed decisions.
When someone’s mental capacity is in doubt, their Will is much more likely to be challenged in court.
In fact, contested probate cases (legal challenges to the wishes in a Will) are rising sharply alongside dementia diagnoses.
Real Families, Real Disputes
Courts are seeing more cases like Margaret Baverstock’s.
Margaret suffered from advanced dementia when her Will was updated.
After her death, her children ended up in a bitter dispute.
One said she was mentally sound and clear about her wishes.
The other pointed to her diagnosis and questioned whether she truly understood what she was signing.
The court found her signature didn’t match earlier documents—leaving her family divided and her wishes uncertain.
What’s the Real Risk? ⚠️
If there’s any doubt about mental capacity, your Will can be challenged.
Wills made after a dementia diagnosis—or even when someone’s capacity is in question—are far more likely to end up in court.
This means delays, extra costs, and your wishes might not be followed.
Why DIY Wills Can Let You Down
DIY and online Will kits look easy and cheap. But they miss out on vital safeguards:
- No professional present:
No one checks your understanding or spots pressure from others. - No attendance notes:
There’s no record of your wishes or the circumstances. - No audit trail:
If someone questions your Will, there’s nothing to look back on. - No defence against disputes:
DIY Wills make it easier for others to challenge your decisions.
How Professional Advice Protects You 🛡️
At Beacon Advice, we do more than just write Wills.
We defend your wishes—even when you’re not here.
We defend your wishes—even when you’re not here.
Here’s how:
- We record meetings (with your permission):
This gives a full transcript of your wishes and instructions.
If your Will is ever challenged, we have clear evidence. - We take detailed notes:
Every step is documented.
This proves your understanding and true intentions. - We follow strict standards:
As proud members of the Society of Will Writers (SWW), we’re held to the highest professional standards.
We’re also auditable (open to independent review). - We offer personal service:
We listen, explain, and make sure you understand.
No jargon, no pressure—just friendly, expert guidance.
What Is Probate? đź“ś
Probate is the process of carrying out the wishes in your Will.
This includes collecting assets, paying debts, and giving what’s left to your chosen people (beneficiaries—those named to inherit).
If your Will is unclear or disputed, probate can become a long, stressful process for your family.
This includes collecting assets, paying debts, and giving what’s left to your chosen people (beneficiaries—those named to inherit).
If your Will is unclear or disputed, probate can become a long, stressful process for your family.
Here is an article on probate for more information – Understanding the Probate Process in England | Beacon Advice
Don’t Leave Your Legacy to Chance 🎯
Dementia rates are rising.
So are Will disputes.
Protect your legacy by acting early.
Use a professional who can stand up for your wishes—even after you’re gone.
So are Will disputes.
Protect your legacy by acting early.
Use a professional who can stand up for your wishes—even after you’re gone.
Let’s Defend Your Wishes Together 🤝
Ready to make or update your Will?
Chat with Beacon Advice.
We’re here to help you protect what matters—today and for the future.
Chat with Beacon Advice.
We’re here to help you protect what matters—today and for the future.
Contact us – Contact / About Us – Beacon Advice
For more information on dementia please check out – Alzheimer’s Society
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