How Can I Write a Will Without a Lawyer? Step-by-Step Guide

Writing a will might seem like something only lawyers can handle, but that’s not true. Many people successfully write their own wills without spending thousands of rands (or dollars) on legal fees. If you’ve ever asked yourself, “how can I write a will?”, this guide will walk you through the process in simple, easy-to-follow steps. Whether you’re young, single, married, or have children, writing a will is one of the most important things you can do to protect your loved ones and ensure your wishes are respected.

What Is a Will?

A will is a legal document that outlines how you want your assets, property, and personal belongings to be distributed after you pass away. It can also specify guardianship for minor children, funeral preferences, and who you want to manage your estate.

Without a will, your estate will be divided according to your country’s intestate laws, which may not reflect your personal wishes. That can also lead to family disputes and unnecessary stress during an already emotional time.

If you’re wondering, “how can I write a will that is legally binding?” the good news is that with the right guidance, it’s entirely possible to do it yourself.

Why Write a Will Without a Lawyer?

1. Save Money

Hiring a lawyer to draft a will can be expensive, often costing several thousand rands. Doing it yourself is free or very low-cost.

2. Simplicity

If your estate is straightforward—meaning you have few assets, no complicated trusts, or business ownership—you likely don’t need a lawyer.

3. Convenience

You can write your will at your own pace from the comfort of your home, without needing to make appointments or travel to legal offices.

Important: You must follow your country’s laws regarding wills. If you’re unsure, you can always have a lawyer review your draft later.

If you’ve ever searched online for “how can I write a will without spending a lot of money,” this section should show you that it’s more accessible than you think.

Step-by-Step Guide: How Can I Write a Will Without a Lawyer?

Step 1: List All Your Assets

Start by writing down everything you own. This includes:

• Property (home, land, buildings)
• Vehicles
• Bank accounts
• Investments and retirement accounts
• Jewelry, electronics, furniture
• Business assets
• Digital assets (photos, emails, cryptocurrency, online accounts)

Knowing what you have makes it easier to decide who gets what.

Step 2: Decide Who Gets What (Your Beneficiaries)

A beneficiary is someone who will receive a portion of your estate. You can leave specific items to specific people or divide your estate into percentages.

Example:

• House to your spouse
• Car to your oldest child
• 50% of bank savings to your daughter, 50% to your son

Be clear and specific so there is no confusion.

Step 3: Choose an Executor

An executor is the person who carries out your wishes and manages your estate. They will:

• File the will with the court
• Pay debts and taxes
• Distribute assets to beneficiaries

Pick someone trustworthy and organized. Talk to them first to make sure they’re willing.

Step 4: Appoint a Guardian (If You Have Minor Children)

If you have children under 18, name a guardian to care for them if something happens to you. This is one of the most important parts of a will for parents.

You can also name a financial guardian if you want someone else to manage their inheritance.

Step 5: Write the Will

Now that you have the important decisions made, start writing your will. You can:

• Use a free template online (search for your country-specific template)
• Use an online will-making tool (like LawDepot, LegalZoom, or FreeWill)
• Handwrite your will (in some countries, handwritten or “holographic” wills are valid)

Make sure the language is clear. Avoid legal jargon if possible.

Many ask, “how can I write a will in a way that’s clear and understandable?” The key is to be specific and simple with your instructions.

Step 6: Sign the Will in Front of Witnesses

This is one of the most important steps.

• You must sign your will in front of witnesses.
• Witnesses must also sign it.
• Most countries require 2 witnesses who are not beneficiaries.

Follow your country’s rules about who can witness a will. If done incorrectly, your will may be invalid.

Step 7: Store Your Will Safely

Keep your will in a safe place where your executor or trusted family member can find it. Good places include:

• A fireproof safe at home
• A safety deposit box
• With a trusted family member or your executor
• Registered with your local will registry (if available)

Do not store your will in a place no one knows about.

Step 8: Review and Update as Needed

Life changes. So should your will.

Update your will after:

• Getting married or divorced
• Having a child
• Moving to a new country
• Buying property
• Losing a beneficiary or executor

Review your will every 2–3 years, even if nothing major has changed.

What to Include in Your Will (Checklist)

• Full name and ID number
• Statement that this is your last will and testament
• Revocation of all previous wills
• Names of your beneficiaries and what they will receive
• Name of your executor
• Guardianship arrangements (if you have children)
• Signature and date
• Witnesses’ signatures and information

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Not signing the will properly
• Choosing witnesses who benefit from the will
• Using unclear language (e.g., “my favorite necklace” instead of describing it)
• Forgetting digital assets and passwords
• Not updating the will when life changes

When You Should Still Consult a Lawyer

While many people can write their own will, there are times when a lawyer is a good idea:

• You have a large or complex estate
• You own a business
• You have children from previous relationships
• You want to set up a trust
• You think your will might be contested

You can still draft the will yourself and pay a lawyer a small fee to review it.

Free and Low-Cost Will Writing Tools

Here are some helpful platforms and resources:

Free Tools:

• FreeWill.com
• Tomorrow App (mobile app for creating wills)
• DoYourOwnWill.com

Paid but Affordable:

• LegalZoom
• LawDepot
• Rocket Lawyer

Make sure you use tools that support your country’s laws.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I write my will on a piece of paper?

Yes, in many places handwritten wills (called holographic wills) are legal—if signed and dated. But it’s safer to follow proper formatting.

Do I need to notarize my will?

Not always. Some countries or states don’t require notarization, but it can make your will harder to dispute.

Can I change my will later?

Yes. You can update your will anytime by creating a new one or adding a “codicil” (an amendment).

What happens if I die without a will?

Your assets will be divided by default laws, and the government decides who gets what. That may not match your wishes.

Final Thoughts

If you’ve been wondering, “How can I write a will without a lawyer?”—now you know. It’s easier than you think and one of the smartest financial decisions you can make. By taking the time to write your will, you’re saving your loved ones from stress, confusion, and potential legal costs down the road