Public 'let down' as govt rejects regulation of will-writing

Carmen Reichman
clock

The government has rejected proposals to regulate the practice of will-writing, following a written request from the Legal Services Board (LSB) which said it had uncovered a "compelling case" for regulatory oversight of the industry.

The government's decision follows a report submitted by the LSB to Lord Chancellor Chris Grayling in February, calling on it to amend its list of reserved activities to include will-writing. The LSB, backed by groups including solicitors' professional body The Law Society, said it had uncovered "consistent" evidence that many consumers are receiving a poor service from will-writers, resulting in financial loss and "emotional harm", following a two-year investigation. However, Grayling rejected the proposal. Currently, will-writing activity is not regulated, though many service prov...

To continue reading this article...

Join Professional Adviser for free

  • Unlimited access to real-time news, industry insights and market intelligence
  • Stay ahead of the curve with spotlights on emerging trends and technologies
  • Receive breaking news stories straight to your inbox in the daily newsletters
  • Make smart business decisions with the latest developments in regulation, investing retirement and protection
  • Members-only access to the editor’s weekly Friday commentary
  • Be the first to hear about our events and awards programmes

Join

 

Already a Professional Adviser member?

Login

More on Regulation

Open finance could pose 'existential threat' to advice market

Open finance could pose 'existential threat' to advice market

Consumer Duty Alliance tech forum attendees hear

Sophia Panayi
clock 23 July 2026 • 3 min read
New regulations and challenges in the EU and UK: What are advisers' next moves?

New regulations and challenges in the EU and UK: What are advisers' next moves?

Regulatory simplification vs expanding oversight

Bernadine Reese
clock 16 July 2026 • 4 min read
FCA investigates 11 potential Consumer Duty breaches including small IFA

FCA investigates 11 potential Consumer Duty breaches including small IFA

Publishes good practice review

Michael Nelson
clock 13 July 2026 • 4 min read