We would not recommend will writing firms as they are not regulated by the Law Society so there are few safeguards if things go wrong.

It is generally advisable to use a solicitor or to have a solicitor check a will you have drawn up to make sure it will have the effect you want. It is easy to make mistakes and, if there are errors in the will, this can cause problems after your death.

However, if you don't use a solicitor, it is better to use a firm which belongs to the Institute of Professional Willwriters. These firms must follow a Code of Practice which covers the training and assessment of willwriters. There is also a complaints and conciliation procedure which can help you sort out problems if things go wrong. You can find details of The Code and of firms which belong to the Institute on the Institute's website at www.ipw.org.uk.

If you belong to a Trade Union they may offer a free will writing service. There are also books which provide guidance on how to draw up a will. These can help you decide if you should draw up your own will or if any of the pre-printed will forms available from stationers and charities are suitable. It is also possible to find help on the internet. However, you should only consider doing it yourself if the will is going to be straightforward.

Our circumstances recently changed and my spouse and I are considering re-writing our will. We had a leaflet through the door advertising will writing services which seemed quite reasonable. Is this method recommended? - May 2011