Getting married or registering a civil partnership is a wonderful milestone—a chance to celebrate love, commitment, and the future you’re building together. But alongside the excitement, there are a few legal details worth keeping in mind. One that often surprises couples is how these events affect your Will.
In England and Wales, marriage or civil partnership automatically revokes an existing Will—unless it was written with that specific event in mind. It’s a small detail with big consequences, especially if you have children from a previous relationship, business interests, or more complex financial arrangements.
A Will is automatically revoked when someone marries or enters into a civil partnership—unless the Will clearly states it was made in contemplation of that event.
But in today’s world of blended families, shared property, and evolving priorities, automatic revocation can sometimes create outcomes you never intended.
If your Will is revoked and you don’t make a new one, your estate will be divided according to the intestacy rules. These rules may not reflect your wishes.
The good news is that you can avoid this issue. By including a clause that your Will was made in contemplation of marriage or civil partnership, you ensure it remains valid after the event.
A carefully drafted Will provides clarity, reduces disputes, and ensures your estate is managed exactly as you intended.
Second marriages and civil partnerships often raise additional considerations. You may want to provide for your new partner while also protecting the inheritance of children from a previous relationship.
In these situations, a professionally drafted Will—sometimes including a trust—can help you:
Whatever stage of life you’re at, here are some simple steps to keep your estate planning on track:
Marriage and civil partnership are joyful milestones, but they’re also legal turning points. By understanding how they affect your Will, you can take proactive steps to protect your legacy and avoid unintended consequences.
At Whitehead Monckton, our Succession team can help you make sure your estate planning reflects your personal circumstances and priorities. Whether you’re getting married, registering a civil partnership, or navigating a second relationship, we’re here to help you plan with confidence—so your wishes are honoured today, tomorrow, and beyond.
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