Can I make changes to my will myself, or do I need a lawyer?
  • Home
  • Questions
  • Can I make changes to my will myself, or do I need a lawyer?

Can I make changes to my will myself, or do I need a lawyer?

1 answer

Answer to the question

0
0
8

06.09.2026

I want to update my will to add a grandchild as a beneficiary and change an executor. Can I just write the changes on the existing will, or do I need to start again with a lawyer’s help? I want to make sure I am not missing anything important before I decide what to do.

Site Administration 11.09.2026
reply date: 11.09.2026

You should not simply write on the original will, since alterations made after a will has been signed and witnessed are not automatically valid unless they are executed with the same formalities, meaning signed and witnessed again in relation to the change, under the Wills Act 2007. The safer and clearer approach is to make a formal codicil, a separate document that amends specific parts of the will, or to make an entirely new will that revokes the earlier one, both properly signed and witnessed. Given the risk of ambiguity, especially when adding a beneficiary or changing executors, it is strongly advisable to use a lawyer or a trustee company to ensure the changes are valid and clearly expressed, and to avoid confusion or disputes among your beneficiaries after your death.

Похожие вопросы

How do I find out if someone left a will?

1 answer
09.07.2026
A distant relative has passed away and I am not sure whether they left a will or who might have a copy. I would like to know if I am mentioned as a beneficiary. How would I go about finding this out? I have tried asking around but nobody seems to give me a clear answer.
0
0
10

What happens if a family member dies without a will?

1 answer
02.08.2026
My father passed away recently and, as far as we know, he never made a will. We do not know what happens to his house, savings and belongings, or who is legally allowed to deal with his affairs. How does the law decide this?
0
0
5

Do I need to pay tax on an inheritance in New Zealand?

1 answer
21.08.2026
I have just inherited a sum of money and some shares from a relative's estate. Someone told me that inheritances are taxed heavily in some countries. Do I have to pay any tax on what I receive in New Zealand?
0
0
21

How does a testamentary trust for a young child work?

1 answer
27.06.2026
I want to leave my estate to my two young children in my will, but I am concerned about them receiving a large amount of money at eighteen. Can I set up something that manages the inheritance until they are older?
0
0
7

Can I challenge a will that leaves me out?

1 answer
05.07.2026
My mother passed away and left almost everything to my sibling, giving me only a token amount. I helped care for her for years and feel this is unfair. Can I challenge the will, and on what basis? I am not sure where to start or who I should be contacting about this.
0
0
9

How do I apply for probate?

1 answer
19.07.2026
I have been named executor in my aunt's will and I am told I need to get probate before I can deal with her bank accounts and property. I have never done this before. What is probate and how do I apply?
0
0
9
Show all