👫 Joint Wills vs. Separate Wills – What’s Best for You?
If you're married or in a long-term relationship, you may be wondering whether to make a joint Will or separate Wills. While both options can help protect your loved ones and ensure your wishes are carried out, there are important differences you should understand before deciding.
In this guide, we’ll explain how joint and separate Wills work, the pros and cons of each, and how to choose the right option for your circumstances.
📄 What Is a Joint Will?
A joint Will is a single document signed by two people — typically a married couple — that outlines their shared wishes for what happens when one or both of them dies. These are rare today, as they are legally binding and difficult to amend after one partner has passed away.
In the UK, mirror Wills are far more common. These are separate Wills with identical content, where each person leaves everything to the other, and then to the same beneficiaries (such as children).
⚖️ Pros and Cons
- ✅ Mirror Wills: Flexible and can be updated individually. Ideal for most couples.
- ✅ Separate Wills: Useful if your wishes or family circumstances differ.
- ⚠️ Joint Wills: Legally restrictive and uncommon in the UK.
If you both want to leave everything to each other and then to your children, mirror Wills are usually the best choice.
👨👩👦 When Separate Wills Make More Sense
- 👶 You have children from previous relationships.
- 🏡 You each own different assets or property.
- 📜 You want to make different charitable gifts or personal bequests.
- 🤝 You prefer privacy or control over your individual wishes.
Separate Wills offer greater flexibility, especially in blended families or where there are complex estates.
💬 Frequently Asked Questions – Joint vs. Separate Wills
Can we use one Will between us?
Legally, it’s possible, but it's not recommended. Mirror Wills are more flexible and allow each of you to make changes later.
Are mirror Wills the same as joint Wills?
No — mirror Wills are separate documents with identical content. Joint Wills are one document signed by both people.
Can we change our mirror Wills in the future?
Yes. Either person can update their Will at any time, as long as they are still alive and have mental capacity.
What if we want different things?
In that case, you should write separate Wills that reflect your individual wishes.
Whether you choose a mirror Will or two separate Wills, we can help you get started — for just £59.
Still have questions? Our experts are happy to help.