The Crucial Importance of Making a Will with a Legal Professional: Protecting Your Estate and Your Legacy
How Estate Planning and Professional Guidance Safeguards Families from Probate Fraud
Making a Will is one of the most important acts of foresight and care you can take for your loved ones. While many consider Wills and estate planning as tasks to be handled in later life, the growing threat of probate fraud and the complexity of modern estates mean that everyone should consider taking action sooner rather than later—guided by trusted legal professionals.
The rising threat of probate fraud
Recent years have seen a worrying rise in cases of probate fraud across the UK. High-profile exposures by law firms such as Parfitt Cresswell have brought to light just how vulnerable estates can be.
In one notable case, fraudsters targeted the estate of a late client, resulting in losses of hundreds of thousands of pounds for the rightful beneficiaries. The investigation that followed stretched across Europe, involving police, courts, and government agencies. Unfortunately, this was not an isolated incident. More individuals have since come forward, revealing a deeper, systemic issue.
Worse still, large sums—potentially millions, or even hundreds of millions, of pounds—are being stolen, often with little recourse for families. Expensive homes across the South East and beyond have been fraudulently claimed by criminal gangs, robbing families of the life savings and hard work of their loved ones.
Systemic failures and the need for vigilance
The exposure of these frauds has highlighted a worrying lack of adequate safeguards, and criminal investigation is often not forthcoming. The reality is stark: probate fraud is a very real risk for UK residents.
In the face of these systemic failures, it falls to individuals to take proactive steps to protect their estates—with more onus than ever on the importance of making a will with a trusted legal professional.
How estate planning and a professional drafted Will can protect you
1. Clarity and control
A professionally drafted Will ensures that your wishes are clearly documented and legally binding. This minimises ambiguity, and makes it much harder for fraudsters to exploit any uncertainty or loopholes.
2. Legal expertise to avoid pitfalls
Legal professionals are trained to spot red flags, close loopholes, and ensure that all formalities are properly observed. They can help you navigate complex situations, such as blended families, overseas assets, or business interests, and ensure your assets are distributed exactly as you intend.
3. Reducing the risk of fraud
Having a Will prepared and held by a reputable legal firm reduces the risk of documents being forged or lost. This both acts as a safeguard against potential fraud, and gives you peace of mind that your wishes will be accurately documented.
4. Easing the burden on loved ones
A clear, professionally prepared Will simplifies the administration of your estate. This helps to reduce stress and conflict amongst your loved ones, making a difficult time just a little bit easier.
5. Comprehensive estate planning
Estate planning covers more than just the distribution of assets. It enables you to address issues such as guardianship for minor children, care of dependents, tax efficiency, and charitable giving. A complete estate plan can also include powers of attorney, trusts, and advance health directives.
What can you do to protect your estate?
While the risk of probate fraud persists, there are several immediate steps you can take:
- Make a Will with a qualified legal professional: DIY Wills or off-the-shelf solutions rarely offer the same level of security, and can leave your estate vulnerable to dispute or fraud.
- Keep your Will up to date: Life circumstances such as marriages, divorces, births, deaths, or significant assets can change over time. Reviewing your Will regularly with your legal advisor will help to ensure that your circumstances are accurately reflected.
- Store your Will securely: Ensure your Will is kept in a safe location, such as with your solicitor, and let trusted individuals know where it’s held.
- Be vigilant for potential scams or fraud attempts: If you suspect something is amiss with a loved one’s estate, seek legal advice immediately.
Conclusion: secure your legacy
The hard truth is that probate fraud is not just a media scare story; it is a growing reality. However, with thoughtful estate planning and the guidance of a trusted legal professional, you can take control of your legacy, and shield your loved ones from unnecessary risk and hardship. Creating a Will is an act of care, responsibility, and wisdom—making it imperative that yours is as robust and protective as you and your family deserve.
At Parfitt Cresswell, we offer a complimentary initial consultation that provides you with the opportunity to speak with a legal professional about your unique circumstances, and find out how best to move forward, prepared and protected. To speak with a member of our team, call us today on 0800 999 4437, or click on the button below.
Parfitt Cresswell Solicitors appeared on ITV Tonight – How to Keep Your Money Safe on Thursday 4th September 2025. Click here to watch the full episode, or find out more about the case in our article here.
