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Wills

We’ll work with you to understand what’s important to you, advising how you can best protect your family and assets.

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Clarity in a complex world.

Making a Will might feel like something to put off, perhaps it doesn’t feel urgent, or you’re unsure about the cost. But having a Will in place gives you peace of mind, knowing your wishes will be followed and the people or causes you care about will be looked after.

 

Whether you’re planning ahead or responding to a life change, we’ll guide you through the process with clear, practical advice tailored to your circumstances.

What to consider when making your Will:

We’ll take the time to understand your personal and financial situation, so we can help you make informed decisions. Key things to think about include:

  • Choosing your Executors – the people who’ll carry out your wishes and manage your estate.
  • Appointing Guardians – for any children under 18.
  • Specific gifts – such as personal items or sums of money.
  • Main Beneficiaries – and what should happen if they pass away before you.
  • Protecting vulnerable people – including how to provide for minors or those with additional needs.
  • Trusts – to safeguard assets from divorce, remarriage, or care fees, while still supporting loved ones.
  • Funeral wishes – if you’d like to include them.

If needed, we’ll bring in our estate planning specialists for tax or trust advice, or our contentious probate team if there’s a risk of future disputes.



Did you know?

Here are a few things that often surprise our clients:

  • Getting married cancels any existing Will – but divorce doesn’t.
  • A spouse doesn’t always inherit everything automatically.
  • Unmarried partners don’t have an automatic right to each other’s assets.
  • Trusts in Wills can protect your estate from future risks.
  • Not all assets are covered by your Will.


Keeping your Will up to date

Life changes – and your Will should reflect that. You might need to update it after:

  • Having children or grandchildren
  • Selling a business
  • Changes in the law
  • A significant change in your personal circumstances

Even if nothing major has changed, we recommend reviewing your Will every 3–5 years to make sure it still reflects your wishes.

Why Choose Porter Dodson?

  • Recognised excellence – Ranked in both The Legal 500 and Chambers & Partners for our expertise in private client services, including Wills, Trusts, and Probate.
  • Clear, compassionate advice – We speak your language, not legal jargon, and tailor our guidance to your personal circumstances.
  • Joined-up legal support – Our team works seamlessly across estate planning, tax, property, and disputes to protect your interests.
  • Trusted by generations – With deep roots in the community, we’ve supported families and business owners across the South West for decades.
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For legal advice on any probate, tax and trust matters

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We had to get a flat purchase in Exeter done very quickly. Nicola Hughes and her team at PD pulled out all the stops to get the purchase over the line in an amazing short time - 2 months from first viewing the flat to moving in! This was despite major complications with the Land Registry. Throughout the rather fraught (for us) process, Nicola was efficient, calm, reassuring and kept us well informed. Very highly recommended.

Steve

I have just sold a house and Porter Dodson were my choice of solicitors. I am so glad I chose this firm! Louise from the Poundbury branch was so helpful. All my enquiries were answered very promptly and clearly and I felt the whole sale was dealt with very professionally. I would not hesitate in recommending this company.

Ben

I instructed Ellice Pounder recently to write my Will. She was excellent, very professional and I was well advised throughout the process. I would highly recommend Ellice.

Beth

Used Porter Dodson for conveyancing on my first house and they were brilliant. All staff I came into contact with were supplying me with all the information and patience when I asked many questions. They provided me with regular updates, advice on process and best choices and gave clear guidance on competing the paperwork. Would absolutely recommend.

Daisy

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