Not Just a Will Writer....

When people contact us, they often begin by saying:

“I just need a will.”

It sounds simple. Straightforward. Sensible. But in reality, very few families only need a basic will.

And this is where the difference between a will writer and an estate planner really matters.

A Will Is a Document. Estate Planning Is a Strategy.

A will writer’s role is typically to draft a document based on your instructions. An estate planner’s role is very different.

We don’t just ask, “Who would you like to leave everything to?”

We ask:

• What assets do you own?
• How are they structured?
• Are you married or remarried?
• Do you have children from different relationships?
• Do you own a business?
• Could inheritance tax be an issue?
• Have you considered future care costs?
• Are any beneficiaries vulnerable?
• Could allowances be lost if the will is structured incorrectly?

Because a will is not just about distribution. It is about protection.

The Hidden Risks of “Simple” Wills

On the surface, many estates look straightforward.  But once we look closer, we often discover:

• Married couples not using their nil rate band or residence nil rate band properly.
• Estates that could unintentionally lose valuable inheritance tax allowances.
• Business owners who are not making full use of business property relief.
• Families exposed to care fee risks.
• Children whose inheritance could be vulnerable in divorce or bankruptcy.
• Blended families where poor structuring could lead to future disputes.

These are not unusual scenarios.  They are common. And small structural mistakes can cost families tens or even hundreds of thousands of pounds in tax or unintended consequences.

Real Planning Saves Real Money

We regularly work with families whose estates exceed £1 million or £2 million.

In many cases, thoughtful structuring can:

• Preserve inheritance tax allowances.
• Protect business assets.
• Ringfence family wealth.
• Ensure children are protected long term.
• Provide flexibility for future changes in circumstances.

The value of getting this right can be significant. That’s why we approach every case as estate planning — not document drafting.

Warm, Clear Advice – Without the Jargon

Being estate planners does not mean being corporate or intimidating. We are proud that our clients describe us as friendly, approachable and clear.

You don’t need legal jargon. You need understanding.

Our role is to explain complex issues in plain English and help you make confident decisions.

Not Everyone Needs Complex Planning

There are situations where a straightforward will is entirely appropriate. But the only way to know that is to understand your full circumstances first.

Assumptions are where problems begin.

Advice is where protection begins.

The Difference Matters

If you are looking for the cheapest possible document, there are many online options available.

If you are looking to ensure your family, your assets and your future are properly protected, then planning matters.

At Hexagon, we don’t just write wills - we design estate plans tailored to your family and your life.

And that difference can make all the difference.

Contact us on 0800 610 1131 or email info@hexagonlps.co.uk to book an appointment today.