Confused by legal jargon? At Wills 4 Less, we hae simplified the most important will terms into plain English so you can make confident decisions about your future and family without feeling overwhelmed.
When planning your Will, you are likely to come across many legal words that feel confusing, overwhelming, or unnecessarily complicated. This Glossary Of WILL Terms has been created by Will 4 Less to give you clarity, confidence, and control over every decision you make.
We understand that writing a Will is not just about documents – it is about securing your loved ones future and giving yourself peace of mind. This comprehensive Glossary Of WILL Terms will guide you through the legal landscape, so you never feel lost or dependent on technical jargon.
Most people feel nervous about making their Will simply because they do not understand the legal words used. This Glossary Of WILL Terms has been prepared to simplify your journey so you can:
At Will 4 Less, we believe no one should feel left out of their own Will due to technical jargon. That is why this Glossary Of WILL Terms exists – to empower you to take charge of your wishes, assets, and loved ones future.
Administrator
If someone dies without a will, the administrator is the person appointed to handle their estate under intestacy rules.
Attestation
The act of witnessing a signature on the will to confirm it was signed properly. Under UK law, two independent witnesses are required for valid attestation.
Beneficiary
Anyone who receives something from your will. This is one of the most searched terms in any Glossary Of WILL Terms because it defines who inherits your estate.
Bequest
A gift left in a will. For example, leaving your jewellery to your daughter is a bequest.
Codicil
An official amendment to your existing will without rewriting the entire document. Our Glossary Of WILL Terms includes this because many people update their wills after major life changes.
Estate
Everything you own at the time of death, including property, savings, investments, and personal belongings.
Executor
The person you choose to carry out your wishes as written in your will. This is one of the most important terms in any Glossary Of WILL Terms as executors have legal responsibility.
Guardianship
If you have minor children, your will appoints guardians to care for them if you pass away before they turn 18. This ensures their emotional and physical well being is protected.
Inheritance Tax (IHT)
Tax payable on your estate if it exceeds a certain threshold (£325,000 as of 2025 in the UK). Knowing this term helps you plan tax-efficiently.
Intestate / Intestacy
Dying without a valid will is called dying intestate. The Glossary Of WILL Terms clarifies this as it triggers strict legal rules about who inherits.
Legacy
Another word for gift in your will. There are specific types:
Mirror Wills
Wills made by couples where both documents reflect similar wishes, usually leaving everything to each other.
Probate
The legal process of validating a will and giving permission to executors to manage the estate. It is a common search under Glossary Of WILL Terms because families often need guidance during probate.
Residuary Estate
Whatever is left in your estate after paying debts, funeral costs, taxes, and specific gifts.
Testator / Testatrix
The person making the will. ‘Testator’ refers to males, ‘Testatrix’ to females, though ‘testator’ is now used neutrally.
Trust
A legal arrangement allowing someone (trustee) to hold and manage assets for beneficiaries. For example, setting up a trust for young children until they reach a responsible age.
Witnesses
People who watch you sign your will and then sign it themselves to confirm you did so willingly. Under UK law, witnesses cannot be beneficiaries.
This Glossary Of WILL Terms helps you:
Many people hesitate to make a will because legal words feel intimidating. At Will 4 Less, we believe knowledge removes fear. That’s why we keep this Glossary Of WILL Terms accessible and jargon-free, making it part of your everyday understanding rather than a confusing legal lecture.
Frequently Asked Questions On The Glossary Of WILL Terms Leicester
Do I need to memorise all these WILL terms before writing my Will?
No, you do not need to memorise them. This Glossary Of WILL Terms is here for your reference whenever you come across an unfamiliar word.
Is this Glossary Of WILL Terms enough to write my own Will without help?
While this glossary helps you understand the terms, we still recommend professional guidance to ensure your Will is valid, tax-efficient, and reflects your exact wishes.
Why does legal language sound so complicated?
Law uses precise terms to avoid disputes or misinterpretation. This Glossary Of WILL Terms translates that precision into words you understand without losing their legal accuracy.
Is this Glossary Of WILL Terms updated regularly?
Yes. We review it annually to match changes in UK law so you always have current knowledge at your fingertips.
At Will 4 Less, we go beyond words on paper We:
Start Your Will Journey With Confidence
Using this Glossary Of WILL Terms will make your Will writing process easier, clearer, and more empowering. At Will 4 Less, we are committed to simplifying Will writing for every family, individual, and professional who seeks peace of mind without legal overwhelm.
If you have any questions beyond this Glossary Of WILL Terms, Contact us to discuss your will with genuine experts who care about your peace of mind as much as your paperwork.
