What is a Mirror Will?

Angela Marangone

Mirror wills are mirror images of each other and practically the same in every way. They suit couples, married or unmarried, where you both have similar wishes on how to distribute your assets.

They are two separate legal documents but they contain almost identical provisions, except for the name of the person making the will and perhaps some small changes relating to your personal items. A simple example is where you leave everything to your partner, and whoever dies last leaves everything to the children.

Mirror wills are a simple, efficient way for couples to express their wishes regarding how they want their estate to be handled after they die.

What are the benefits of making mirror wills?

The main benefit is that it can be a much more cost-effective option than writing two single wills.

Since the mirror wills contain very similar provisions and use similar language, it is almost like getting two wills for the price of one.

Mirror wills also provide peace of mind and assurance that your partner will have full control over your estate when you die. This is particularly important for unmarried couples who do not have the same rights as married couples or civil partners. If you die without a will in place, the law decides who inherits your estate and it may not be your partner.

• Related article: The Benefits of Early Inheritance Tax Planning

What are the problems of making mirror wills?

While mirror wills are virtually identical, they are still two separate, legal documents. This means that either person can update or change their will without the other person knowing. It is important that both parties review their wills regularly to ensure that they still reflect your needs and wishes.

What is the difference between a mirror will and a mutual will?

A mutual will is a will written by two people. It contains an agreement not to change or cancel the will in the future when one of the two people dies.

A mirror will is not a mutual will and does not contain this agreement. With mirror wills, the surviving partner can change or cancel their will at any time, either before or after the other person has passed away.

Is a mirror will right for me?

Mirror wills are often a practical solution for couples, but they are almost identical documents. If you cannot agree on what is in the will, or you both want something different, then a mirror will may not be suitable. In this case, you can choose to write two separate wills, each reflecting your individual wishes.

How we can help

To learn more about the benefits and considerations of mirror wills contact our expert will solicitors. Call 020 7485 8811 or fill in the contact form below.