Libby Holding: Don't forget your will when you're saying 'I do'

Contemplation clauses explained

clock • 4 min read

With the restrictions on numbers for events lifted (at the time of writing), the wedding season is back in full swing. In this article, Libby Holding takes a look at the effect that nuptials can have on a couple’s estate planning and, with one in three marriages now ending in divorce, considers the impact of a future split

If couples are engaged or planning to marry their current partner in the future, they don't need to wait until after the marriage to review their estate planning but would need to include a contemplation of marriage clause in any wills they sign before the wedding. When a person gets married or enters into a civil partnership without a contemplation of marriage clause in their will, the will is automatically revoked by the wedding, and they would therefore die intestate if they failed to make another will after the marriage or civil partnership. A contemplation of marriage clause prev...

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 Estate planning

The estate planning conversation too many families never have

The estate planning conversation too many families never have

The Terminally Ill Adults (End of Life) Bill ended in defeat

Alexa Payet
clock 12 October 2026 • 4 min read
Why trusts remain relevant in financial planning

Why trusts remain relevant in financial planning

Making trusts easier to understand

Simon Dodd
clock 05 October 2026 • 4 min read
'Changeable environment': Don't delay, start estate planning today

'Changeable environment': Don't delay, start estate planning today

'Further changes could be announced to pay for any shifts in policy'

Julia Peake
clock 14 August 2026 • 4 min read