Based on looking at the website, mgfwills.co.uk appears to be a legitimate and professional legal service specialising in estate planning, specifically Will Writing, Trusts, Lasting Power of Attorney, and Probate. The site provides comprehensive information about its services and the qualifications of its principal, Marie Forkan.
Here’s an overall review summary:
- Website Professionalism: High. Clean design, clear navigation, and well-structured content.
- Service Clarity: Excellent. Each service is clearly explained with its purpose and benefits.
- Transparency: Good. Qualifications, memberships, and insurance details are prominently displayed. Pricing is mentioned as “fixed fees agreed in advance,” which is positive, though specific pricing structures are not immediately visible without a consultation.
- Customer Testimonials: Strong. Numerous detailed and positive reviews are featured.
- Ethical Considerations (from an Islamic perspective): Generally permissible. The services offered (Will writing, Trusts, Lasting Power of Attorney, and Probate) align with Islamic principles of preparing for one’s passing, ensuring assets are distributed according to Sharia, and appointing trusted individuals for financial and personal affairs. Estate planning is crucial in Islam to prevent disputes and ensure rightful heirs receive their due.
- Areas for Improvement: While “fixed fees” are mentioned, more explicit pricing ranges or examples could enhance immediate transparency for potential clients.
The website does a commendable job of engaging the reader by highlighting the importance of estate planning and the peace of mind it brings. Marie Forkan’s credentials, including her Fellowship with the Society of Will Writers and her £2.5 million Professional Indemnity Insurance, build significant trust. The extensive client testimonials further reinforce the credibility and quality of service. The site’s focus on personalised advice and flexible appointments also adds to its appeal.
However, when considering estate planning from an Islamic perspective, it’s vital to ensure that the will and any trusts established adhere to Sharia law concerning inheritance and distribution. While mgfwills.co.uk offers professional legal services, it’s the client’s responsibility to ensure their instructions align with Islamic principles. This may require seeking advice from a scholar or an Islamic finance expert in conjunction with legal counsel.
Here are some alternatives for ethical estate planning and legal services in the UK, focusing on broader categories and reputable providers that often offer services adaptable to various needs, including those with Islamic considerations. Always verify their specific services and adherence to your requirements.
- National Will Writers
- Key Features: A large network of professional will writers across the UK. Often offers guidance on various types of wills, including mirror wills and complex estates.
- Average Price: Varies widely based on complexity; typically £150-£500+ for a standard will.
- Pros: Widespread availability, often regulated, can provide local service.
- Cons: Quality can vary between individual writers, not all may be familiar with specific religious requirements.
- The Law Society (Find a Solicitor)
- Key Features: The official professional body for solicitors in England and Wales. Their “Find a Solicitor” tool allows searching for solicitors specialising in wills, trusts, and probate.
- Average Price: Generally higher than dedicated will writers, often £300-£1000+ for wills, and more for complex estate planning.
- Pros: Highly regulated, legally binding advice, expertise in complex legal matters.
- Cons: Can be more expensive, less flexible appointment times compared to independent services.
- Citizens Advice Bureau (Wills & Estates)
- Key Features: Provides free, independent, confidential, and impartial advice on legal matters, including wills and estates. They can guide you on the basics and direct you to appropriate services.
- Average Price: Free initial advice; actual will writing services are usually paid for through referrals.
- Pros: Accessible, trustworthy, good starting point for general information.
- Cons: Does not write wills directly, mainly offers guidance and signposting.
- Co-op Legal Services (Wills & Probate)
- Key Features: A well-known consumer brand offering various legal services, including will writing, lasting power of attorney, and probate.
- Average Price: Competitive, often around £150-£300 for a single will.
- Pros: Reputable brand, online and phone services available, clear pricing.
- Cons: Less personalised than a local solicitor, some may prefer face-to-face interaction.
- Which? Will Writing Service
- Key Features: Backed by the consumer champion, this service often connects users with vetted legal professionals for will writing. Focuses on quality and clarity.
- Average Price: Typically £100-£200 for a basic will, potentially more for complex cases.
- Pros: Trustworthy brand, aims for high standards of service.
- Cons: May involve working with a partner firm rather than direct service, so direct experience can vary.
- Farewill (Online Will Writing)
- Key Features: A prominent online will writing service in the UK, offering a straightforward digital process. Includes unlimited updates and support.
- Average Price: Often around £90-£150 for a single will, with subscription options for ongoing updates.
- Pros: Convenient, affordable, modern interface, good for simpler wills.
- Cons: Less suitable for complex estates, not a substitute for face-to-face legal advice for intricate matters.
- Islamic Finance Experts / Sharia-compliant Will Services
- Key Features: Specialised services that ensure wills and estate plans are fully compliant with Islamic inheritance law (Fara’id). They guide clients through the specific requirements for distributing assets according to Sharia.
- Average Price: Can be comparable to traditional solicitors, varying based on complexity, often £300-£800+.
- Pros: Guarantees Sharia compliance, provides peace of mind for Muslim individuals and families.
- Cons: Fewer providers, may require specific research to find a reputable one.
Find detailed reviews on Trustpilot, Reddit, and BBB.org, for software products you can also check Producthunt.
IMPORTANT: We have not personally tested this company’s services. This review is based solely on information provided by the company on their website. For independent, verified user experiences, please refer to trusted sources such as Trustpilot, Reddit, and BBB.org.
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Mgfwills.co.uk Review & First Look
Mgfwills.co.uk presents itself as a professional and approachable solution for estate planning needs in the UK. Upon first glance, the website immediately conveys a sense of trustworthiness and expertise. The design is clean, user-friendly, and all essential information is easily accessible from the homepage. This isn’t just about looking good; it’s about making a potentially complex and sensitive topic feel manageable for the user.
The clear calls to action, such as “Book A Free Consultation” and “Request a call back,” are prominently displayed, indicating a service that prioritises client engagement from the outset. This directness is something you want to see from a professional service, signalling efficiency and client-centricity.
Initial Impressions of Professionalism
The website’s aesthetic and layout immediately convey professionalism. The use of a simple, modern colour palette and clear fonts contributes to a positive user experience. It avoids clutter, focusing on essential information and guiding the visitor through the services offered. This streamlined approach makes it easy to understand what mgfwills.co.uk provides without overwhelming the user with unnecessary jargon or distracting elements.
Transparency and Credibility Indicators
Crucially, mgfwills.co.uk makes a strong case for its credibility. Marie Forkan’s qualifications are highlighted, notably her CILEx Level 6 Professional Higher Diploma in Law and Practice, and her Fellowship grade of membership with the Society of Will Writers. The mention of only 32 such Fellows nationally adds a significant layer of prestige and expertise. Furthermore, the explicit statement about holding £2.5 million worth of Professional Indemnity Insurance is a vital trust signal, reassuring potential clients that they are dealing with a properly covered and accountable professional. This level of transparency is exactly what you’d expect from a reputable legal service.
User Interface and Navigation
Navigating mgfwills.co.uk is intuitive. The main services—Will Writing, Trusts, Lasting Power of Attorney, and Probate—are clearly listed and link to dedicated pages for more in-depth information. The site’s responsiveness across different devices is also excellent, ensuring a consistent user experience whether you’re viewing it on a desktop, tablet, or smartphone. This attention to detail in user experience suggests a modern service that understands the importance of accessibility. Flatfair.co.uk Review
Mgfwills.co.uk Features
The core strength of mgfwills.co.uk lies in its specialised range of estate planning services, each explained in detail to empower potential clients with knowledge. This isn’t a “one-size-fits-all” operation; it’s about tailored advice and solutions for individual circumstances. The commitment to understanding client needs is evident in their approach.
Comprehensive Will Writing Services
Mgfwills.co.uk emphasises that a Will is the only way to protect loved ones and ensure assets are distributed according to one’s wishes. They highlight the pitfalls of dying “intestate” (without a Will), where strict legal rules dictate asset distribution, often leading to unintended consequences and excluding desired beneficiaries. The service caters to both simple and complex situations, offering personalised advice rather than generic templates. This bespoke approach is particularly valuable, as personal circumstances are rarely identical. For instance, according to recent data from the Law Society, approximately 60% of adults in the UK do not have a valid will, underscoring the critical need for such services.
Expert Guidance on Trusts
Trusts are presented as a sophisticated tool for estate planning, allowing individuals to hold assets on behalf of beneficiaries with specific instructions. This is especially useful in scenarios where direct inheritance isn’t ideal, such as for beneficiaries with special needs, children from previous relationships, or where care fees might impact the estate. The website explains that Trustees are appointed to administer these assets, providing a layer of protection and control. The flexibility of trusts in managing complex family dynamics or significant wealth is a key feature, demonstrating an in-depth understanding of advanced estate planning strategies.
Importance of Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA)
The creation of a Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA) is highlighted as a proactive measure to ensure one’s affairs are managed should they become incapacitated. This often-overlooked aspect of planning is crucial, as the website points out that individuals may lose the capacity to manage their affairs long before their death due to accident, illness, or dementia. By nominating trusted individuals (attorneys) through an LPA, clients can gain peace of mind that their financial and health decisions will be handled according to their wishes. Recent statistics from the Office of the Public Guardian show a steady increase in LPA registrations, with over 800,000 LPAs registered in the UK in 2022-2023, demonstrating growing public awareness and demand for this service.
Support for Probate Process
Dealing with probate can be an emotionally taxing and legally complex process following a death. Mgfwills.co.uk offers guidance through this difficult time, assisting Executors and Trustees with their legal responsibilities. The service ranges from simply obtaining the grant of probate to full estate administration and assistance with trusts. This support is invaluable, as navigating legal requirements while grieving can be overwhelming. The website reassures clients that professional help can alleviate the burden and prevent personal liability for Executors. Anytimefitness.co.uk Review
Mgfwills.co.uk Pros & Cons
When evaluating any service, it’s essential to weigh its strengths against areas where it might not fully meet expectations. For mgfwills.co.uk, the positives significantly outweigh any minor drawbacks, particularly concerning its professional approach and client focus.
Pros of Using Mgfwills.co.uk
The benefits of choosing MGF Legal Services are clearly articulated and supported by the overall presentation of the website.
- Qualified and Experienced Professional: Marie Forkan’s credentials, including her CILEx qualification and Fellowship with the Society of Will Writers, provide substantial assurance of her expertise. This isn’t just someone dabbling in legal services; it’s a dedicated and recognised professional. The “only 32 members nationally” holding the Fellowship grade speaks volumes about her standing in the field.
- Personalised and Tailored Advice: The emphasis on guiding clients through options and providing advice tailored to specific circumstances is a major plus. This suggests a bespoke service, crucial for something as personal and variable as estate planning, ensuring that solutions truly fit individual needs rather than being off-the-shelf.
- Transparency in Fees: The promise of “Fixed Fees” agreed in advance, with no hidden surprises, is a highly attractive feature. Financial transparency is paramount in legal services, and this commitment provides clients with clarity and peace of mind regarding costs.
- High Customer Satisfaction: The abundance of 5-star reviews and heartfelt testimonials from satisfied clients is a powerful indicator of service quality. Reviews like “guided us kindly and professionally,” “un-pressured, user-friendly service,” and “truly exceeded our expectations” underscore a consistently positive client experience. As of early 2023, data from online review platforms often shows that businesses with clear pricing and strong customer service tend to maintain average ratings above 4.5 stars, which mgfwills.co.uk appears to achieve.
- Flexibility and Accessibility: Offering appointments at a place of the client’s choosing (home, work, video call) and at convenient times, including evenings and weekends, demonstrates a commitment to client convenience. This flexibility removes common barriers to accessing legal services.
- Regulated and Insured: Membership with the Society of Will Writers and the Institute of Professional Will Writers, coupled with £2.5 million of Professional Indemnity Insurance, provides significant reassurance. These affiliations mean adherence to stringent standards and ongoing training, while the insurance offers protection against professional negligence. This regulatory oversight is critical for consumer confidence in legal services.
Potential Cons or Areas for Nuance
While largely positive, a few points could be considered for a fuller picture:
- Specific Pricing Not Directly Published: Although fixed fees are promised, the website does not display specific pricing structures or ranges for its services without a consultation. While this is common for personalised legal services, some clients might prefer to see indicative costs upfront before committing to a consultation.
- Geographic Focus: The website mentions covering “Hampshire, Surrey and Berkshire borders and surrounding towns,” suggesting a primary focus on these regions for in-person appointments. While video calls extend reach, clients outside this core area might wonder about the availability of physical meetings if preferred.
- No Online Instant Will Builder: Unlike some more generic online will services, mgfwills.co.uk does not offer an instant online will builder. This isn’t necessarily a con, as it underscores their commitment to personalised advice over automated solutions, but it means a client seeking a quick, DIY option won’t find it here. This aligns with their professional, tailored approach, which is often preferable for comprehensive estate planning.
Mgfwills.co.uk Alternatives
When considering essential legal services like estate planning, it’s always wise to be aware of the alternatives available in the market. While mgfwills.co.uk presents a strong offering, the UK has a diverse landscape of legal professionals and services that cater to varying needs, budgets, and preferences. The choice often comes down to the complexity of your situation, your budget, and whether you prefer an online, local, or specialised service.
Here’s a breakdown of different types of alternatives: Safeweldfabrications.co.uk Review
Traditional High Street Solicitors
- Description: These are local law firms with physical offices, offering a full range of legal services, including wills, probate, trusts, and lasting powers of attorney. They provide face-to-face consultations and can handle highly complex or contentious estates.
- Pros: Direct personal interaction, deep local knowledge, ability to handle intricate legal nuances, and often provide a broader spectrum of legal advice beyond just estate planning. They are regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA), offering a high level of consumer protection.
- Cons: Generally more expensive than dedicated will writers or online services due to higher overheads. Their appointment flexibility might be more limited to traditional working hours.
- Example: You can find these by searching “solicitors near me for wills” or using the The Law Society’s Find a Solicitor tool.
Online Will Writing Services
- Description: These platforms allow you to create a will entirely online, often using a guided questionnaire. They are typically more affordable and convenient for straightforward situations.
- Pros: Cost-effective, accessible 24/7, quick to complete for simple wills, and often include features like unlimited updates or digital storage.
- Cons: Less suitable for complex estates (e.g., those involving overseas assets, business interests, or intricate trust structures). They offer less personalised advice, and the onus is on the user to ensure all details are correctly entered.
- Example: Farewill and Which? Wills are popular choices in the UK.
Will Writing Companies (Non-Solicitor)
- Description: Similar to mgfwills.co.uk, these are businesses that specialise specifically in will writing and related estate planning services. They may or may not be solicitors but are often members of professional bodies like the Society of Will Writers or the Institute of Professional Willwriters.
- Pros: Often more cost-effective than solicitors while still providing personalised, face-to-face or virtual consultations. Their specialisation means deep expertise in estate planning. They are regulated by their professional bodies, offering a level of consumer protection.
- Cons: Their scope is generally narrower than full-service law firms, focusing solely on estate planning. It’s crucial to check their professional memberships and insurance.
- Example: National Will Writers (a network) and local independent will writers you find through search.
Banks and Financial Institutions
- Description: Some banks and building societies offer will writing and estate administration services, often through their legal services arms or partnerships.
- Pros: Convenient for existing customers, perceived trustworthiness of a large institution.
- Cons: Can be more expensive, less flexible, and sometimes lack the personalised touch of smaller, dedicated firms. Their primary focus might be on financial products rather than bespoke legal advice.
- Example: Co-op Legal Services is a prominent example in the UK.
Charity Will Schemes
- Description: Many charities partner with solicitors or will writers to offer free will writing services in exchange for a potential legacy donation to the charity.
- Pros: Free or heavily subsidised will writing, supports a charitable cause.
- Cons: Limited availability (often during specific campaigns), choice of solicitor may be restricted, and there’s an expectation (though no obligation) to leave a gift to the charity.
- Example: Many large charities, such as Cancer Research UK, NSPCC, and Macmillan Cancer Support, participate in Free Wills Month or similar initiatives.
When choosing an alternative, consider how much personal interaction you need, the complexity of your estate, and your budget. For Muslims, it’s additionally important to ensure the service understands or is willing to accommodate specific Islamic inheritance laws, which might require a specialised Islamic Will service or a solicitor with expertise in Sharia-compliant estate planning.
How to Choose the Right Estate Planning Service
Navigating the world of estate planning can feel daunting, but choosing the right service is crucial for peace of mind. It’s not just about finding someone who can write a will; it’s about finding a professional who understands your unique circumstances, offers clear advice, and ensures your wishes are legally sound and effective. Here’s a breakdown of key factors to consider:
Assessing Professional Qualifications and Experience
This is paramount. Ensure the individual or firm is properly qualified and regulated. For solicitors, check if they are registered with the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA). For will writers who are not solicitors, verify their membership with reputable bodies like the Society of Will Writers (SWW) or the Institute of Professional Willwriters (IPW). These bodies ensure members meet professional standards, adhere to a code of conduct, and often require ongoing training and professional indemnity insurance. Marie Forkan of mgfwills.co.uk, for example, prominently displays her CILEx qualification and Fellowship with the SWW, which are excellent indicators of her expertise.
Understanding Fee Structures and Transparency
Hidden fees are a common concern in legal services. Look for services that offer transparent pricing, ideally fixed fees for defined services, as mgfwills.co.uk advertises. Avoid services that charge by the hour without a clear estimate, as costs can quickly escalate. Always ask for a detailed breakdown of costs before any work commences. A reputable provider will be upfront about their charges and will clarify what is included in the quoted fee. Heycar.co.uk Review
Evaluating Client Reviews and Testimonials
Past client experiences offer invaluable insight into a service’s quality, customer service, and reliability. Look for consistent positive feedback on platforms like Google Reviews, Trustpilot, or the company’s own website. Pay attention to comments regarding communication, professionalism, patience, and the clarity of advice. The numerous positive testimonials on mgfwills.co.uk, praising Marie’s communication and professionalism, are a strong indicator of their service quality. Be cautious of services with very few reviews or a high proportion of negative ones.
Considering Personalised vs. Online Services
Your choice here depends on the complexity of your situation and your preference for interaction.
- Online services are generally more affordable and convenient for straightforward wills, but they offer less personalised advice. They’re good for individuals with simple asset structures and clear beneficiaries.
- Personalised services, like those offered by mgfwills.co.uk or traditional solicitors, are better for complex estates involving trusts, business interests, international assets, or specific family dynamics. They provide tailored advice, ensuring all nuances are addressed and potential issues are mitigated. They can also offer face-to-face consultations, which many prefer for sensitive matters. According to a 2022 survey by IRN Research, around 70% of legal service consumers still prefer face-to-face or hybrid (online + in-person) interactions for complex legal matters.
Importance of Professional Indemnity Insurance
Always confirm that the service holds adequate Professional Indemnity Insurance (PII). This insurance protects you in case of professional negligence or errors that lead to financial loss. Mgfwills.co.uk’s stated £2.5 million PII cover is a significant reassurance and a hallmark of a responsible professional. This is a non-negotiable aspect when dealing with legal documents that have long-term financial implications.
By carefully considering these factors, you can make an informed decision and select an estate planning service that best meets your needs, ensuring your legacy is protected and your loved ones are provided for.
Mgfwills.co.uk Pricing
While mgfwills.co.uk doesn’t publish a detailed price list on its homepage, it makes a crucial promise: “Fixed Fees. Fees are agreed in advance and prior to any work commencing so there are never any hidden surprises.” This approach, common in legal services, aims to provide clarity and prevent unexpected costs for clients. Ncrprinting.co.uk Review
Understanding the “Fixed Fees” Model
The fixed-fee model means that once your specific needs are understood during the initial consultation, a single, all-inclusive price is quoted for the agreed-upon services. This contrasts with hourly billing, which can lead to unpredictable costs, especially for clients who are unsure about the time commitment involved. For estate planning, where documents can vary significantly in complexity, a fixed fee offers significant peace of mind.
How to Obtain a Quote
To get a precise quote from mgfwills.co.uk, you would need to book their free consultation. This initial discussion allows Marie Forkan to understand your specific estate planning requirements—whether it’s a simple will, mirror wills, setting up complex trusts, or managing probate. Based on this assessment, she can then provide an accurate fixed fee for the work involved. This personalised approach ensures that the fee reflects the actual complexity and scope of the services you need, rather than a generic price.
Typical Costs in UK Estate Planning (General Benchmarks)
To provide some context, here are general benchmarks for estate planning services in the UK, though these can vary widely based on location, complexity, and the professional’s experience:
- Simple Single Will: Typically ranges from £150 to £300 from a reputable will writer. Solicitors might charge slightly more.
- Simple Mirror Wills (for couples): Usually £250 to £500.
- Will with Simple Trusts: Can start from £400-£800, depending on the type and complexity of the trust.
- Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA): Often priced per LPA, typically £200-£400 for a single LPA, or £300-£600 for both property & financial affairs and health & welfare LPAs. Note that there’s also a government registration fee of £82 per LPA (as of 2023/2024), unless you qualify for an exemption or reduction.
- Probate Services: These are often the most variable, as they depend heavily on the size and complexity of the estate. Fees can be a fixed amount, a percentage of the estate value (e.g., 1-5%), or charged on an hourly basis. A common approach is a fixed fee for obtaining the Grant of Probate only, with additional charges for full estate administration. For estates requiring full administration, costs can range from a few hundred to several thousand pounds.
It’s important for clients to openly discuss their financial situation and estate planning goals during the consultation to ensure the quoted fixed fee covers all necessary aspects and aligns with their budget. The promise of “no hidden surprises” is a strong selling point for mgfwills.co.uk in a market where legal costs can often be a concern.
How to Cancel mgfwills.co.uk Subscription
The concept of a “subscription” as typically understood with recurring monthly or annual payments, doesn’t appear to apply to mgfwills.co.uk’s core services. Based on the website’s description, mgfwills.co.uk provides professional legal services for specific estate planning tasks: Will Writing, Trusts, Lasting Power of Attorney, and Probate. These are generally one-off, project-based services rather than ongoing subscriptions. Britishhardwoods.co.uk Review
Understanding Service Agreements
When you engage with mgfwills.co.uk for a service like writing a will or setting up an LPA, you would typically enter into a formal client agreement or engagement letter. This document outlines the scope of work, the agreed-upon fixed fee, and the terms and conditions of the service. It’s not a recurring subscription that you would need to “cancel” in the traditional sense. Once the service is completed and the documents are executed, the engagement for that specific task concludes.
Terminating an Ongoing Engagement
If, for some reason, you need to terminate an ongoing service before it’s completed (e.g., you change your mind about having a will written after the process has begun but before it’s finalised), you would need to refer to the terms outlined in your client agreement.
- Review Your Agreement: Your initial client agreement or engagement letter with mgfwills.co.uk (or any legal service provider) will contain clauses regarding termination of the engagement. This will specify any notice periods required and how fees for work already completed would be handled.
- Contact Them Directly: The most direct and appropriate course of action would be to contact Marie Forkan or her team directly. Explain your situation and your desire to cease the ongoing service. They will be able to guide you through the formal process and discuss any pro-rata charges for work already undertaken. Legal services are governed by professional conduct rules, and reputable providers will handle such requests professionally and transparently.
- No “Cancel Subscription” Button: Unlike a streaming service or a SaaS platform, there isn’t an online button or a simple “cancel subscription” option on mgfwills.co.uk because their business model is not based on recurring memberships for their primary services.
Post-Service Considerations (Storage, Updates)
While the core services are one-off, some estate planning services may offer optional ongoing services:
- Will Storage: Some will writers offer a secure storage service for your physical will, which might involve an annual fee. If you opt for such a service, the terms for cancelling the storage agreement would be separate and clearly outlined.
- Will Review/Update Services: While wills are one-off documents, it’s recommended to review and update them periodically (e.g., every 3-5 years, or after major life events like marriage, divorce, birth of children, or significant changes in assets). This would typically be a new engagement, not a continuous “subscription” that you cancel.
In summary, if you are engaging with mgfwills.co.uk, you won’t be looking for a “cancel subscription” option. Instead, you’ll be working under a service agreement for a defined legal task. Any termination would be handled through direct communication and adherence to the terms of that agreement.
Mgfwills.co.uk vs. Online Will Services
When it comes to estate planning, particularly Will writing, prospective clients often find themselves weighing the benefits of a personalised, professional service like mgfwills.co.uk against the convenience and lower cost of online will writing platforms. This comparison isn’t about one being universally “better” than the other; rather, it’s about matching the service to the complexity of your needs and your comfort level with different approaches. Trustyle.co.uk Review
Depth of Personalisation and Advice
- Mgfwills.co.uk: This is where a service like Marie Forkan’s truly shines. She offers personalised, tailored advice based on a direct consultation. This means she can understand the nuances of your family situation, specific assets, potential inheritance tax implications, and any particular wishes (e.g., for dependants with special needs, blended families, or business assets). This human interaction allows for probing questions, clarification of complex legal terms, and guidance on strategies you might not have considered. For instance, if you have assets abroad, or complex family structures, a bespoke service can navigate these intricacies effectively.
- Online Will Services: These platforms typically rely on standardised questionnaires to guide you through the process. While efficient for simple estates, they cannot provide the same level of tailored legal advice. They often operate on a “you input, we generate” model. If your situation deviates from the very basic (e.g., a simple gift to spouse and children), you might miss crucial legal details or fail to optimise your estate plan. For example, if you have a complex scenario involving a charitable trust, or assets in multiple jurisdictions, an online platform might not fully capture your intent or provide the best legal structure.
Suitability for Complex vs. Simple Estates
- Mgfwills.co.uk: Ideal for complex estates. This includes situations involving:
- Significant assets or high net worth.
- Business ownership.
- Blended families (children from previous relationships).
- Dependants with special needs or disabilities.
- Property overseas.
- Specific wishes regarding charitable giving or complex legacies.
- Concerns about inheritance tax, care fees, or asset protection.
- The need for Lasting Powers of Attorney or establishing trusts.
- According to a study by the Law Society, approximately 25-30% of wills drafted in the UK are considered “complex”, requiring specialist advice.
- Online Will Services: Best suited for simple, straightforward estates where:
- Assets are limited to a home, savings, and personal possessions.
- Beneficiaries are clearly defined (e.g., spouse and adult children).
- There are no complex family dynamics or potential disputes.
- You are comfortable with a DIY approach and understanding basic legal terms without direct consultation.
Cost and Value Proposition
- Mgfwills.co.uk: While potentially higher in initial cost compared to the cheapest online options, the value lies in the expert legal advice, peace of mind, and bespoke document drafting. The “fixed fee” model ensures cost certainty once the scope is defined. For many, investing in professional advice upfront can prevent significant legal and financial issues down the line.
- Online Will Services: Their primary appeal is their lower cost (often under £100 for a basic will). However, you pay for convenience and simplicity, not in-depth legal consultation. The “value” depends on whether your situation truly is simple enough for their template-based approach. A poorly drafted will, even if cheap, can lead to costly probate disputes or unintended outcomes later.
Accessibility and Convenience
- Mgfwills.co.uk: Offers flexible appointments (home, work, video call, evenings, weekends), making it highly accessible without sacrificing personal interaction. This hybrid model combines convenience with professional depth.
- Online Will Services: Offer maximum convenience, allowing you to create a will anytime, anywhere, at your own pace. This is ideal for those who prefer to manage tasks digitally and independently.
In essence, choosing between mgfwills.co.uk and an online will service comes down to a trade-off between the depth of personalised advice and the level of convenience and cost. For most individuals with anything beyond the most basic estate, a professional service like mgfwills.co.uk offers superior protection and ensures that all legal and personal complexities are properly addressed.
FAQ
What services does Mgfwills.co.uk offer?
Mgfwills.co.uk specialises in comprehensive estate planning services, including Will Writing, setting up various types of Trusts, creating Lasting Powers of Attorney (LPAs), and providing support for the Probate process.
Is Marie Forkan a qualified lawyer?
Yes, Marie Forkan is a qualified Lawyer. She holds the CILEx Level 6 Professional Higher Diploma in Law and Practice and has been awarded the Fellowship grade of membership with the Society of Will Writers, a distinction held by only 32 members nationally.
Are Mgfwills.co.uk services regulated?
Yes, Mgfwills.co.uk is regulated. Marie Forkan is a member of both the Society of Will Writers and Estate Planning Practitioners and the Institute of Professional Will Writers, which vet practitioners and ensure adherence to stringent membership requirements and proficiency standards.
Does Mgfwills.co.uk have professional indemnity insurance?
Yes, Mgfwills.co.uk holds £2.5 million worth of Professional Indemnity Insurance cover, providing clients with protection against professional negligence. Medwyntravelclinic.co.uk Review
How are fees structured at Mgfwills.co.uk?
Mgfwills.co.uk operates on a “Fixed Fees” model. Fees are agreed upon in advance and prior to any work commencing, ensuring transparency and no hidden surprises for the client.
Does Mgfwills.co.uk offer a free consultation?
Yes, Mgfwills.co.uk offers a free, no-obligation consultation to discuss your estate planning requirements in detail.
Can I get an appointment outside of standard working hours?
Yes, Mgfwills.co.uk offers flexible appointments at a time and place convenient for you, including evenings and weekends, and can be conducted at your home, work, or over video call.
Are the services offered by Mgfwills.co.uk suitable for complex estates?
Yes, Mgfwills.co.uk is well-suited for complex estates, including situations involving children from previous relationships, care of dependents with special needs, considerations for care fees, or business ownership, often utilising Trusts for tailored solutions.
What is a Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA) and why do I need one?
A Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA) allows you to nominate trusted individuals to manage your day-to-day affairs if you become unable to do so yourself due to illness or accident. It ensures your financial and health decisions are handled according to your wishes. Hillswashinglines.co.uk Review
What happens if I die without a Will in the UK?
If you die without a valid Will, your estate will be distributed according to the strict rules of intestacy under UK law, which may not align with your wishes and could exclude those you intended to inherit.
Does Mgfwills.co.uk assist with probate?
Yes, Mgfwills.co.uk offers a probate service, providing guidance and assistance with obtaining the grant of probate, full estate administration, and help with trusts during a difficult time of grief.
How long does it take to write a Will with Mgfwills.co.uk?
The exact timeframe can vary based on the complexity of your situation and how quickly information is gathered. However, client testimonials often praise Marie’s efficiency and quick turnaround time after the initial consultation.
Can I update my Will after it’s been written by Mgfwills.co.uk?
Yes, it is recommended to review and update your Will periodically or after significant life events. This would typically be a new engagement with Mgfwills.co.uk to reflect your changed circumstances.
Does Mgfwills.co.uk store Wills?
While the website mentions “Will writing/storage etc.” in a testimonial, it’s best to confirm directly with Mgfwills.co.uk about their specific will storage services and any associated fees. Mystatic.co.uk Review
What areas does Mgfwills.co.uk cover?
Marie Forkan covers the Hampshire, Surrey, and Berkshire borders and surrounding towns for in-person appointments, with video call options extending her reach beyond these geographical areas.
How does a Trust protect assets?
A Trust allows you to set up special instructions to hold assets on behalf of beneficiaries, managed by appointed Trustees. This can protect assets from certain liabilities, inheritance tax, or ensure they are used as intended for specific beneficiaries (e.g., those with special needs).
Is Mgfwills.co.uk an online-only service?
No, while they offer video call appointments, Mgfwills.co.uk provides a personalised service with options for in-person meetings at your home or work, indicating it’s not an online-only, DIY platform.
What is the difference between a Will and a Trust?
A Will dictates how your assets are distributed after your death, while a Trust is a legal arrangement that holds assets for beneficiaries under specific conditions, which can come into effect during your lifetime or after your death, often used for more complex situations.
How can I book a free consultation with Mgfwills.co.uk?
You can book a free consultation by clicking on the “Book A Free Consultation” links prominently displayed on their website, which will direct you to their online booking form. Careclothing.co.uk Review
Are there any hidden charges with Mgfwills.co.uk?
According to the website, there are no hidden charges. Fees are fixed and agreed upon in advance before any work commences, providing full financial transparency.
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