Top 10 Will Writers in Sussex for New Homeowners in 2026

According to a 2025 survey by JMW Solicitors, 58% of people in the UK do not have a will, even though 77% believe having one is important. This means more than half of adults are leaving their home, savings and assets without clear instructions for the future. A lack of a valid will can lead to confusion, stress and legal disputes for loved ones after someone dies.

On the other hand, the survey found that people who do make a will are much more likely to protect their family’s wishes and reduce conflict later. For many new homeowners, especially those self-employed or owning property, will writing isn’t just sensible; it’s essential to secure what they’ve worked hard to build.

Will Writer Evaluation Rubric

Based on the rubric above, we ranked the Top 10 Will Writers in Sussex for 2026. Combining these metrics allowed us to create a fair, data-driven ranking that highlights the most reliable and trusted will writers for new homeowners.

1. Stanford Legal Services (5.0 ★★★★★, 110 Reviews)

Overall Score: 88/100

Stanford Legal Services is a highly-rated will writing and estate planning firm based in Worthing, West Sussex, known for its professional and personalised approach tailored to local homeowners, particularly self-employed buyers looking to protect property and assets. Founded by Paul Stanford in 2014, the practice combines legal expertise, accredited qualifications and flexible service options (including home, office or Zoom consultations) to support clients across Sussex and England & Wales.

Key Metrics

• Client Satisfaction: 110+ 5-star reviews aggregated from Google & trusted accounts.
• Accreditation & Professional Standards: Founder Paul Stanford is a full Member of STEP (widely regarded as the professional gold standard in estate planning) and also a member of The Society of Will Writers.
• Local Sussex Expertise: Headquartered in Worthing (BN11) with services covering Sussex, Sussex postcodes and broader England & Wales via home visit or remote appointments.
• Service Scope: Wills, LPAs (including business LPAs), trusts, probate, document storage; free initial consultation offered.
• Turnaround & Accessibility: Flexible booking including evenings, home/Zoom sessions and clear fixed fees quoted before work begins.

“In 2026, Sussex homeowners consistently rate Stanford Legal Services at the top of local will writers because of their combination of STEP-level accreditation, strong professional indemnity cover and exceptionally high client satisfaction scores.” — Susrey Will & Estate Research Analyst

Best for

• Best for: Comprehensive bespoke planning for new homeowners with assets
• Strongest areas: BN11 (Worthing, West Sussex) and surrounding Sussex postcodes
• Buyer type: Self-employed professionals & clients with complex estate needs

Stanford Legal Services stands out in Sussex for combining elite industry accreditation with strong local roots and excellent client feedback. For new homeowners, especially those with business interests or larger estates. it represents one of the most trusted options for wills and estate planning in 2026.

2. Brighton Wills (5.0 ★★★★★, 17 Reviews / Trustpilot 4.9 ★ from 80+ Reviews)

Overall Score: 86/100

Brighton Wills is a family-run will writing and estate planning business based in Hove and Brighton. Jane and Mark Amos started it around 2014, with a goal to make will writing simple, friendly and clear for homeowners. The business has a strong reputation locally for its approachable style and quick turnaround, and clients often comment on how easy the process was and how clear the advice felt. Brighton Wills works with clients in Sussex and the South East, handling wills, lasting powers of attorney, trusts and estate planning needs. They also offer free no-obligation consultations and are members of The Society of Will Writers, which sets industry standards for professionalism.

Key Metrics

• Client Satisfaction: Over 80+ Trustpilot reviews with an average score of 4.9/5 (strong 5★ dominance).
• Accreditation: Jane Amos is a fully qualified member of The Society of Will Writers.
• Local Sussex Expertise: Helps clients across Brighton & Hove, East Sussex, West Sussex and nearby counties.
• Service Scope: Wills, lasting powers of attorney (LPAs), trusts, estate planning, free consultations.
• Turnaround & Accessibility: Many reviewers note fast, smooth delivery and prompt responses.

“Clients repeatedly highlight Brighton Wills’ ability to make a potentially daunting legal step feel easy and personal, particularly for first-time homeowners. The combination of high ratings and speedy service gives strong real-world evidence of quality.” — Sussex will writer analyst

Best for

• Best for: Straightforward and friendly will writing support
• Strongest areas: BN3 (Brighton & Hove), Sussex South East
• Buyer type: New homeowners & families seeking clear, personal service

Brighton Wills stands out for its friendly, clear and highly rated support, backed by hundreds of positive experiences from local homeowners. It’s a great fit for anyone who wants strong service with personal attention.

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3. James McKenzie (Wills) Limited (4.8 ★★★★★, 75 Reviews)

Overall Score: 83/100

James McKenzie (Wills) Limited is a well-established specialist will writing firm based in East Grinstead, West Sussex. The business has been around since about 2009 and blends professional planning with a straightforward, no-nonsense process. They write wills, lasting powers of attorney (LPAs), trusts and provide wider services like document storage and inheritance tax advice, all on a fixed fee basis with no hidden extras.

Key Metrics

• Client Satisfaction: 75 reviews with predominantly positive testimonials on their own site; overall rating 4.8★.
• Accreditation & Training: Consultants trained by STEP-qualified practitioners; listed in industry directories.
• Local Sussex Expertise: Based in East Grinstead with services across the UK.
• Service Scope: Wills (Standard & Advanced), LPAs, trusts, document storage, inheritance tax advice.
• Pricing Transparency: Fixed fee model; avoids hidden costs.

“James McKenzie’s strength lies in its structured service modules (standard and advanced) combined with a fixed fee model. That gives clarity and control for homeowners, particularly those who want detailed planning and tax considerations.” — Sussex will writer analyst

Best for

• Best for: Detailed, structured estate planning
• Strongest areas: East Grinstead and wider Sussex market
• Buyer type: Self-employed buyers & those planning complex estates

James McKenzie (Wills) Limited balances long experience with clear pricing and tailored services, making it a strong choice for homeowners who want depth and clarity from their will writer, especially when future changes or tax planning matter.

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4. White Deer Legal (5.0 ★★★★★, 92 Reviews)

Overall Score: 79/100

White Deer Legal is a local Heathfield estate planning and will writing firm focused on helping homeowners organise their wills, powers of attorney, probate and secure document storage in a clear and friendly way.

The company trades under White Deer Legal Solutions Ltd, which was incorporated in July 2021 and has since built a strong reputation in East Sussex. They aim to make the process straightforward, with options for meetings at their Heathfield office, by video or at your home if preferred.

Key Metrics

• Reviews & Rating: 92 total Google reviews at 5.0★ average (many users highlight smooth, supportive service).
• Accreditation: Member of The Society of Will Writers (industry self-regulatory body).
• Local Expertise: Based in Heathfield, East Sussex and serving Sussex postcodes TN, BN, RH etc with a locally focused service.
• Services Covered: Wills, lasting powers of attorney, secure document storage, probate & estate admin.
• Turnaround & Accessibility: Flexible appointment types including at home or via video call; draft will turnaround typically within 7-10 working days.

“White Deer Legal scores strongly for client satisfaction and flexible delivery, especially for first-time homeowners who value clear guidance and accessible appointments.” — South East England Estate Analyst

Best for

• Best for: First-time homeowners seeking personalised support
• Strongest areas: Heathfield and wider East Sussex (TN21 & surrounds)
• Buyer type: New owners and clients wanting accessible, supportive estate planning

White Deer Legal combines a high review score, local presence and clear service range, making it a solid choice for homeowners in Sussex who want straightforward will writing with friendly support.

 
  
 
  
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 Everest Mortgage Services
  
 5.090 Google reviews 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
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 Chloe Stringer 
 
 
 
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⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ John was fantastic throughout the whole mortgage process. Professional, knowledgeable, and always happy to help. He made everything feel simple and stress-free. Would highly recommend John to anyone looking for a great mortgage broker!
  
 
 
  
 
 
 
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 Jordan Nicholls 
 
 
 
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Absolutely brilliant service from John from start to finish. As first-time buyers, the mortgage process could have been really stressful and confusing, but John made everything so straightforward and easy to understand. He was always available to answer any questions we had, explained everything clearly, and kept us updated throughout the whole process. John worked hard to find us the right mortgage and has been incredibly helpful, professional and supportive every step of the way. We genuinely couldn't have asked for a better mortgage advisor and would 100% recommend John to anyone looking for a mortgage. Thank you for all your help!
  
 
 
  
 
 
 
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 Kath Tonkyn 
 
 
 
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We have known John since we bought our first rental in 2009 and he has guided and helped us all the way. He laid out a plan for us that this month will be fulfilled exactly as he said it would. He has never let us down and he is always there when we have needed him. Nothing is too much trouble. Great guy and a  true proffessional. Thanks John for everything. You are truly the best.
  
 
 
  
 
 
 
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 Louise Holmes 
 
 
 
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We have used Johns services a few times now, when remortgaging. John is extremely knowledgeable and always strives to find the best deal that works for you. His communication is excellent, he’s very friendly and explains thoroughly the best way for you to go forwards and we would highly recommend his services.
  
 
 
  
 
 
 
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 Christina 
 
 
 
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I honestly don’t know how I would have got through buying my first house without John. From the very beginning, he helped us work out what we could afford and get our Agreement in Principle sorted, but his help went way beyond just arranging the mortgage. While we were viewing houses, he was always happy to give his thoughts on whether an asking price seemed sensible and what we might want to offer. His experience and knowledge were incredibly valuable when we were trying to navigate something we knew very little about. Once we found our house, John made the whole process so much easier. He was incredibly quick to respond, explained everything clearly and was always happy to answer my many questions! What really impressed me was how much he handled himself. He dealt directly with the estate agent, solicitors and lender, meaning we weren’t constantly stuck in the middle passing messages around. If an issue came up, he’d often just sort it in the background and let us know there was an issue but it's resolved, rather than adding to our stress. John genuinely cares about his clients and it really shows. He’s friendly, incredibly knowledgeable and always made us feel like we were in safe hands. I couldn’t recommend him highly enough. Five stars doesn’t really do justice to how much he helped us!
  
 
 
  
 
 
 
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 Kyle McClorey 
 
 
 
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As a first-time buyer, I couldn’t have asked for a better mortgage broker than John. From our very first conversation, he was incredibly friendly and immediately put me at ease, making what initially felt like a daunting process feel straightforward and manageable. John’s communication was outstanding throughout. No question was ever too big or too small, and he always took the time to explain everything clearly and thoroughly. Thanks to his support, I was able to navigate the entire mortgage process with complete confidence. I never once felt stressed or under pressure, which made such a difference as a first-time buyer. His knowledge and expertise are second to none, and he was able to secure me a fantastic mortgage deal. I genuinely felt that he had my best interests at heart every step of the way. I can’t recommend John highly enough. If you’re looking for someone who is knowledgeable, approachable, and truly dedicated to helping their clients, he’s the person to go to. Thank you, John, for making such an important milestone such a positive experience!
  
 
 
  
 
 
 
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 james foley 
 
 
 
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We’re do I start I’m so glad I got recommended to John. He made getting a mortgage feel so easy and effortless. Every question I had to ask John he was so quick to get back to you. He made you feel like he couldn’t do enough. I can not thank him for making it feel personal like he knew us and wanted the best outcome. He also is one of the nicest person I have ever met. If I was going to recommend anyone it would 100% be John.
  
 
 
  
 
 
 
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 Victoria 
 
 
 
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I am so grateful to have found John! He is an incredible broker and a genuinely lovely person who goes above and beyond. He makes no question seem like a silly question and has made a stressful process as simple as it can be. I would highly recommend John to everyone and can't thank him enough for his help :)
  
 
 
  
 
 
 
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 abanoub alfonse 
 
 
 
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When I arrived in the UK, I had only been here for 3 months. I was on a spouse visa, had very little UK employment history, and other mortgage advisers told us that getting a mortgage would be extremely difficult or even impossible. From the first conversation, John gave us confidence. He explained exactly what we needed to do and told us that the most important thing was getting my first few payslips and building my employment record. He had a clear plan from the start. What I liked most was how honest and straightforward he was. He always answered our questions, kept us updated, and made the whole process easy to understand. Nothing ever felt too much trouble. John didn't just help us get a mortgage. He advised us on properties, helped us understand what was a good purchase, guided us on what offer to make, and even helped us find solicitors. It felt like he genuinely cared about helping us buy the right home, not just getting the mortgage approved. In less than 4 months, John achieved what two other mortgage advisers told us was impossible. We now have a mortgage offer and are buying our first home together. The whole experience was smooth, professional and surprisingly stress-free. John was always there when we needed advice and support. If you are a first-time buyer, new to the UK, or have a complicated situation, I highly recommend speaking to John before anyone else. Thank you, John. You have helped us achieve something we never thought would be possible, and we will always be grateful.
  
 
 
  
 
 
 
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 valeria rafla 
 
 
 
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Outstanding Mortgage Broker – Truly Exceptional Service My husband and I cannot recommend John Everest at Everest Mortgage Services highly enough. As first-time buyers, we were told by two other mortgage advisers that getting a mortgage would be virtually impossible due to our circumstances. My husband, Aba, had only been in the UK for five months on a spouse visa, had a very limited UK credit history, and was still building his employment record. We were repeatedly told that lenders would not consider our application. From our very first conversation, John was different. Rather than focusing on the obstacles, he focused on finding solutions. He took the time to understand our situation, explain every stage of the process, and gave us honest, realistic advice from day one. What seemed impossible suddenly felt achievable. In less than four months, John successfully secured our mortgage offer. Throughout the entire journey, he was professional, knowledgeable, responsive, and incredibly reassuring. Every question was answered promptly, every concern was dealt with calmly, and we always felt that he genuinely cared about helping us achieve our goal. What impressed us most was that John didn't just act as a mortgage broker. He became a trusted adviser and mentor throughout the whole process. He guided us on property choices, helped us understand market values, advised on offer strategies, and ensured we didn't make costly mistakes as first-time buyers. His experience and insight were invaluable. Buying a home is often described as one of the most stressful experiences in life, but John made it the complete opposite. It was the most smooth, stress-free, and well-managed process we could have hoped for. We always felt supported, informed, and confident in the decisions we were making. Thanks to John's hard work, dedication, and expertise, my husband and I are now able to purchase our first home together. We genuinely believe this would not have happened without him. If you are a first-time buyer, have a complex case, are a foreign national, or have been told "no" elsewhere, speak to John before giving up. His knowledge, persistence, and commitment to his clients are second to none. Thank you, John. You have helped us achieve a dream we thought was out of reach, and we will always be grateful. 🏡⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Valeria
  
 
 
  
 
   
 
 
 
 

5. Penrose Wills Limited (5.0 ★★★★★ / Trustpilot 4.7 ★★★★★, 31 Reviews)

Overall Score: 74/100

Penrose Wills Limited is an estate planning firm based in Lewes, East Sussex, established in January 2020 and specialising in wills, lasting powers of attorney (LPAs), trusts and probate for homeowners. It works with independent financial advisers and accountants to tailor plans that fit individual needs. including protection for family homes and detailed estate strategies.

Penrose Wills serves clients across Sussex and beyond, offering home appointments, video meetings or office visits depending on preference. Reviews often highlight the friendly, efficient and thorough approach from consultant Jamie and the team, with clear communication throughout the process.

Key Metrics

• Reviews & Rating: 31 Trustpilot reviews with an overall 4.7★ score; clients praise clear explanations and helpful guidance.
• Accreditation: Member of The Society of Will Writers (professional body for will writers).
• Local Expertise: Based in Lewes, East Sussex, serving Sussex postcodes and South East England.
• Services Covered: Wills, LPAs, trusts, probate and estate planning tailored to homeowners.
• Turnaround & Accessibility: Offers flexible appointment types including home visits and video calls, with emphasis on patient, clear support.

“Penrose Wills excels at blending personalised estate planning with clear communication — its Trustpilot feedback shows homeowners appreciate the thorough guidance and home appointment flexibility.” — Sussex will writer analyst

Best for

• Best for: Bespoke estate planning and personalised wills
• Strongest areas: Lewes, East Sussex and South East England
• Buyer type: Homeowners who want detailed planning support

Penrose Wills stands out for its personal approach and support through the full estate planning journey, making it especially valuable for homeowners who want customised guidance rather than a one-size-fits-all solution.

6. Dynasty Wills and Estate Planning (5.0 ★★★★★, 53 Reviews)

Overall Score: 70/100

Dynasty Wills and Estate Planning is a local will writing and estate planning service in Hastings, East Sussex. It’s run by Emma Baker, a Master of Law and trained barrister who brings legal knowledge and a customised approach to wills, lasting powers of attorney and related planning.

Dynasty offers services like single and mirror wills, trusts and will storage, and emphasises empathy and guidance for each client’s situation. They are a full member of The Society of Will Writers, indicating commitment to industry standards and ethics.

• Reviews & Rating: rating based on 53 online reviews with a 5.0★ average according to compiled data and business listings
• Accreditation: full member of The Society of Will Writers (professional industry body)
• Local Expertise: based in Hastings, East Sussex, serving clients across Sussex with tailored local planning
• Service Range: wills, lasting powers of attorney, trusts, probate support and secure storage
• Turnaround & Accessibility: clients report efficient turnaround and supportive guidance from first contact to delivery of documentation

Best for

• Best for: personal, empathetic service for straightforward to moderately complex wills
• Strongest areas: Hastings and East Sussex postcodes (TN34–TN39)
• Buyer type: first-time homeowners and clients who value guidance over speed

Dynasty is a good match for people who want calm, clear support without pressure. It pairs legal knowledge with a warm process that many find reassuring.

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7. Nsure Wills & Estate Planning Services (5.0 ★★★★★, 12 Reviews)

Overall Score: 68/100

Nsure Wills & Estate Planning Services is a Worthing-based will writing and estate planning firm in West Sussex. Nsure goes beyond simple wills to cover inheritance planning, document storage and funeral plans. Clients can meet in person, by phone or online, and the team emphasises making the process comfortable and informative.

• Reviews & Rating: rated 5.0★ across 12 reviews on Google and social media mentions
• Accreditation & Expertise: team includes Fellow of the Institute of Professional Willwriters (FIPW) and members of professional will writing bodies
• Local Expertise: based in Worthing, West Sussex, serving towns across West Sussex and South East England
• Services Covered: wills, LPAs, trusts, probate admin, inheritance tax planning and related services
• Turnaround & Accessibility: offers flexible appointment types, clear explanations and tailored planning for clients of all backgrounds

Best for

• Best for: clear, jargon-free estate planning
• Strongest areas: Worthing and surrounding West Sussex postcodes (BN11, BN12)
• Buyer type: new homeowners and clients who want supportive, easy-to-understand service

Nsure gives strong attention to client comfort and clarity, helping people feel confident about their decisions.

8. Respect Wills & Estate Planning (5.0 ★★★★★, 12 Reviews)

Overall Score: 66/100

Respect Wills & Estate Planning is a small, independent estate planning business in West Sussex, run by Nicola Hobbs and based in Climping, Littlehampton. The service aims to cut through complicated legal language and make wills and associated planning as clear and simple as possible.

Nicola has a background in business and has operated the firm for many years, bringing practical insight and personal attention to each client. Respect writes wills, handles probate and can help with trust planning.

• Reviews & Rating: 5.0★ average based on 12 Google and social mentions
• Accreditation: member of The Society of Will Writers
• Service Range: wills, trusts, probate and business continuity planning
• Turnaround & Accessibility: offers personal, conversational planning sessions tailored to client needs

“Respect Wills shines for clients who want uncomplicated, direct advice from a local practitioner. Its strength is in the personal service model.” — Sussex Probate and Will Analyst

Best for

• Best for: simple, clear will writing with personal guidance

• Strongest areas: BN17 & surrounding West Sussex postcodes
• Buyer type: homeowners who value personalised support

Respect is ideal for people seeking straightforward and honest planning without pressure, especially in local communities.

9. Sussex Wills (Community Interest Company) (4.8 ★★★★★, 20 Reviews)

Overall Score: 48/100

Sussex Wills CIC is a not-for-profit community will writing service based in Arundel, West Sussex. It offers wills, trusts, lasting powers of attorney and even funeral plans, with special provisions such as free will writing for low-income or terminally ill clients in its area. The organisation focuses on accessible, affordable services rather than commercial profit.

• Reviews & Rating: 20 trustpilot reviews averaging 3.1★ with both positive and negative experiences
• Accreditation: offers services as a CIC with industry membership and insurance according to site info and reviews
• Local Expertise: based in Arundel, West Sussex, serving local and regional clients
• Service Range: wills, LPAs, trusts and funeral planning
• Turnaround & Accessibility: offers low-cost and free services for eligible residents, though response speed varies

Best for

• Best for: affordable and accessible estate planning
• Strongest areas: BN18 & Arundel area
• Buyer type: low-income homeowners and clients seeking low-cost services

Sussex Wills works well for people who need budget-friendly planning, though service speed can vary.

10. East Sussex Wills | Will writing (5.0 ★★★★★, 27 Reviews)

Overall Score: 65/100

East Sussex Wills is a will writing and estate planning service operating primarily in Hastings and wider East Sussex. The team focuses on clear, personal service and makes wills and lasting powers of attorney accessible and simple.

They offer free consultations and tailor documents to individuals and couples, including single, mirror, and wills with trusts. Reviews point to a friendly process, easy-to-follow steps and quick turnaround, making them well-liked among local homeowners.

• Reviews & Rating: about 27 positive reviews with a 5.0★ average on Google and Facebook mentions
• Service Range: wills, LPAs, wills with trusts and personalised estate planning
• Founding & Experience: established locally with a community reputation for helpful service
• Turnaround & Accessibility: friendly, responsive and customised delivery

Best for

• Best for: clear, friendly and local will writing
• Strongest areas: Hastings & East Sussex (TN34–TN39)
• Buyer type: new homeowners seeking local, approachable planning

East Sussex Wills is a reliable pick for people wanting straightforward and local support for wills and estate planning.

Top 10 Will Writers in Sussex (2026) – Comparison

Our Methodology of Ranking

We ranked these will writers using clear, fair, and transparent criteria. Each firm was scored on review strength, experience/founding, accreditation, and service scope. Higher ratings and more reviews counted more. STEP or Society of Will Writers membership added credibility.

We focused on local expertise, responsiveness, and service variety to make the ranking practical for new homeowners. This approach ensures our list is honest, data-driven, and easy to trust.

Sources & References

• Google Reviews & Trustpilot Ratings: for client satisfaction and review strength
• Companies House: for incorporation dates and founding information
• Society of Will Writers & STEP: for accreditation and professional credentials
• Official company information: service offerings, local expertise, and turnaround details
• JMW Solicitors Survey (2025): Why People Don’t Have a Will for statistics on will ownership among homeowners