Can a beneficiary act as witness to a will?

Описание: Can a beneficiary be a witness to a will?
In short: no — not safely. If someone who benefits under your will (or their spouse/civil partner) acts as a witness, the will can still be valid… but their gift is void, meaning they lose what you intended to leave them.

In this video, we cover:

Why a beneficiary (or their spouse/civil partner) should never witness your will

The key rule in s.15 Wills Act 1837 (gift fails, will usually stands)

The very limited exceptions (including s.68 Wills Act 1968 and Cresswell v Cresswell (1868))

Why a professional executor charging for their time isn’t treated as a beneficiary (s.28 Trustee Act 2000)

Practical alternatives if you’re isolating/under restrictions: use truly independent witnesses (neighbours, colleagues, friends, community contacts)

Key takeaway:
Always use independent witnesses to protect your will—and the people you want to benefit.

⚠️ Note: This video is general information about wills in England & Wales and isn’t a substitute for tailored legal advice.

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