Updating a Will & Codicil to a Will
Life doesn’t stand still, and neither should your will – we’ll help you decide whether a codicil or a new will is right.
Reviewing your will after life changes.
Your will should reflect your current wishes and circumstances. Over time, relationships, finances and responsibilities change – and your will should change with them.
Many people assume that once a will is signed, it is final. In reality, it should be reviewed regularly and particularly after major life events, such as:
- Getting married or divorced.
- Having children or grandchildren.
- Buying or selling a property.
- Receiving an inheritance or starting or selling a business.
Keeping your will up to date ensures your estate is distributed as you intend and helps reduce uncertainty or disputes later.
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What is a codicil to a will?
A codicil is a short legal note that updates specific parts of your will so you don’t have to rewrite the whole document. It allows you to amend specific parts of your will without rewriting the entire document.
A codicil is often used to:
- Change executors.
- Update guardians.
- Alter a specific gift.
- Adjust wording where only a small amendment is needed.
A codicil must be signed and witnessed in the same way as a will to be legally valid.
However, if changes are more substantial, drafting a new will is the more practical solution.
When is it better to make a new will instead of a codicil?
Although a codicil to a will can be suitable for minor updates, multiple codicils can create confusion. In some situations, drafting a new will is the more practical solution.
You may be better making a new will if:
- You are making several changes.
- Your family circumstances have significantly altered.
- Your estate has increased in value.
- Inheritance tax planning is now required.
- Previous wording is outdated or unclear.
A new will revokes the previous version and avoids uncertainty caused by cross-referencing multiple documents.
If you are unsure, our team can review your existing will and advise whether a codicil or a new will is the appropriate course of action.
Why instruct a solicitor to update your will?
Even small changes can have significant legal consequences. Incorrectly drafted codicils or improperly witnessed documents can invalidate the underlying will and your intentions.
By working with experienced solicitors, you benefit from:
- Peace of mind that your will professionally updated.
- Assurance that formalities are correctly followed.
- Tax efficiency and protection through trusts.
- Clarity where marriage or divorce affects your will.
- Greatly reducing the risk of future disputes.
Our role is to ensure your updated will reflects your current wishes and remains legally robust.
If you are unsure, our team can review your existing will and advise whether a codicil or a new will is the appropriate course of action.
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Why clients choose Thomas Mansfield Solicitors.
Our private client team helps individuals, couples and families across London and the South East review and update their wills.
Clients value that we:
- Explain legal changes clearly and without jargon.
- Assess whether a codicil or a new will is appropriate.
- Provide practical advice tailored to evolving circumstances.
- Ensure documents are properly executed and legally sound.
- Offer ongoing support as life changes.
Our solicitors regularly advise on codicils and complex will amendments, giving you confidence that changes are legally sound.
Meet our team
Take the next step towards updating your will.
If you think your will may need updating, or you are unsure whether a codicil is appropriate, you’ll be in safe hands with us.
What to do next
Frequently asked questions
Can I update my will myself?
Yes, but it can be risky because informal changes are unlikely to be valid. A codicil must be properly drafted, signed and witnessed. Errors can invalidate the document or create confusion, which can in turn open up conflicts and disputes between heirs.
Does divorce revoke a will?
Divorce does not revoke a will entirely, but it treats a former spouse as though they had died. This can affect executorship and gifts. It is advisable to update your will following divorce.
Does marriage affect my will?
Yes. Marriage generally revokes an existing will unless it was made in contemplation of that marriage. If you marry after signing a will, you should review it immediately to avoid unintended consequences.
How often should I review my will?
It's good practice to review your will every three to five years, or sooner if major life changes occur. Regular reviews help ensure it remains accurate and effective.
Is there a limit to how many codicils I can have?
No. There’s no legal limit on the number of codicils you can make. However, having several codicils can create confusion, increase the risk of inconsistencies and make your will harder to interpret. In many cases, if multiple changes are needed, it’s cleaner and safer to prepare a new will instead.
What is the difference between a codicil and a new will?
A codicil to a will makes a minor amendment to an existing will, whereas a new will replaces the old one entirely. A codicil is usually suitable for small changes. If multiple updates are required or circumstances have changed significantly, drafting a new will is often clearer and more reliable.
Contact us
Getting in touch couldn’t be easier. Use our form or call us to speak to an experienced solicitor in confidence.
Please note we cannot offer legal aid.