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AI Generated British Codicil
PDF & Word - 2026 Updated

Generate a custom AI-powered British codicil effortlessly to amend your existing UK will, ensuring your legal wishes are accurately updated without starting from scratch.
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Example of a Codicil for use in the United Kingdom</b> generated by our AI model.
Example Codicil Produced by Docaro

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When do you need a Codicil in the United Kingdom?

To add a small change to your will
If you want to update minor details in your existing will without rewriting the whole thing, a codicil lets you make those simple additions easily.
To remove or replace a beneficiary
When circumstances change, like a family member passing away, a codicil allows you to adjust who receives your assets without starting over.
To update an executor or guardian
If you need to name a new person to handle your estate or care for dependents, a codicil can make this change straightforward.
To correct errors in your will
For fixing small mistakes or outdated information in your will, a codicil ensures your wishes are accurately reflected.
To avoid confusion in your estate
A well-drafted codicil keeps everything clear and organised, preventing family disputes and ensuring your assets go where you intended.
To save time and money
Using a codicil is quicker and less expensive than creating a new will, making it a practical choice for minor updates.

British Legal Rules for a Codicil

What is a Codicil?
A codicil is a simple document that allows you to make small changes or additions to your existing will without rewriting the whole thing.
When to Use It
Use a codicil for minor updates, like changing an executor or adding a small gift, but for big changes, it's better to make a new will.
Who Can Make One
You must be at least 18 years old and mentally capable of understanding what you're doing to create a valid codicil.
How to Write It
Clearly state that it's a codicil to your specific will, describe the changes precisely, and sign it in front of two witnesses who are not beneficiaries.
Signing Requirements
You need to sign the codicil in the presence of two independent witnesses who also sign it, ensuring it's legally binding.
Storage and Safety
Keep the codicil with your original will or inform your executor where it is, so it's found and applied after your death.
Limits and Risks
Limit codicils to one or two changes to avoid confusion; too many can complicate your will and lead to disputes.
Important

Using the wrong structure for a codicil may invalidate changes to your will or lead to unintended legal interpretations.

What a Proper Codicil Should Include

  • Clear Identification
    State that this is a codicil to your existing will and identify the date of the original will.
  • Your Personal Details
    Include your full name, address, and confirm you are of sound mind and acting freely.
  • Specific Changes
    Describe exactly what changes you want to make to the will, such as updating a beneficiary or gift.
  • Revocation Clause
    Declare that only this codicil and the original will are valid, revoking any prior conflicting changes.
  • Date and Signature
    Sign and date the codicil in the presence of at least two independent witnesses who also sign.
  • Witness Details
    Have two witnesses who are not beneficiaries sign to confirm they saw you sign the document.

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Why Use Docaro?

Fast Generation
Quickly generate a comprehensive Codicil, eliminating the hassle and time associated with traditional document drafting.
Guided Process
Our user-friendly platform guides you step by step through each section of the document, providing context and guidance to ensure you provide all the necessary information for a complete and accurate Codicil.
Safer Than Legal Templates
We never use legal templates. All documents are generated from first principles clause by clause, ensuring that your document is bespoke and tailored specifically to the information you provide. This results in a much safer and more accurate document than any legal template could provide.
Professionally Formatted
Your Codicil will be formatted to professional standards, including headings, clause numbers and structured layout. No further editing is required. Download your document in PDF, Microsoft Word, TXT or HTML.
Tailored to British Law
Our AI model considers the latest legal standards and regulations of the United Kingdom during the drafting process.
Cost-Effective
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Free Example Codicil Template

Below is a free template example of a Codicil for use in the United Kingdom generated by our AI model.

The clauses in your actual Codicil will vary from this example as they will be entirely bespoke to your requirements as set out in the questionnaire you complete.

Codicil

1
INTRODUCTION

1.1

This Codicil is made by me John Michael Smith of 123 High Street London SW1A 1AA born on 01 January 1960 on the 20th day of October 2023.

1.2

This is a codicil to my last Will and Testament dated 15 May 2020 ("the Will").

1.3

This Codicil is intended to be read as one with and as part of the Will.

2
REVOCATION OF PREVIOUS CODICILS

2.1

I hereby revoke all prior codicils (if any) made by me to the Will.

3
SPECIFIC AMENDMENTS

3.1

I revoke Clause 3 of the Will which provides for the bequest of the family home to my son John Doe in its entirety.

3.2

I add the following new clause after Clause 3 of the Will: "I give to my nephew John Smith free of tax the sum of \£10,000 (ten thousand pounds)."

3.3

I amend the appointment of my executor in Clause 2 of the Will by substituting the current address of my solicitor for the previous address stated therein.

4
CONFIRMATION OF UNCHANGED PROVISIONS

4.1

In all other respects I confirm the Will and all prior codicils (if any) thereto.

5
DECLARATIONS

5.1

I declare that I am of sound mind and understand the nature and effect of this Codicil.

5.2

I declare that I make this Codicil freely and voluntarily without any undue influence or pressure from any other person.

This example shows approximately 70% of a typical document and is provided for illustrative purposes only. The remaining content has been omitted.

Every document generated by Docaro is tailored to your specific circumstances, jurisdiction and the information you provide. The completed document includes all applicable clauses and provisions required for your situation.

To generate the full, personalised document, answer a short series of questions and your document will be created instantly.

Useful Resources When Considering a Codicil in the United Kingdom

Willsand estate - planning
Making and amending your will to include a gift to Age UK
Making a will - all you need to know
Factsheet 7 - Making a will
Show All Resources

United Kingdom Reference Legislation

The following legislation is relevant to the generation of a Codicil in the United Kingdom:
The primary statute governing the validity, execution, and alteration of wills in England and Wales, including codicils as supplements or amendments to wills. Section 20 specifically addresses the execution requirements for codicils.
Amends aspects of will-making, including provisions on revocation and alteration of wills, which impact the use of codicils. Section 18 deals with the effect of alterations to wills post-execution.

Codicil FAQs

A codicil is a legal document that acts as an addendum to an existing will in the UK. It allows you to make changes, additions, or amendments to your original will without rewriting the entire document. This is a simple and cost-effective way to update your estate plans.
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Document Generation FAQs

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Related Articles

Common Codicil Use Cases
Explore common codicil use cases in the United Kingdom and learn when a simple will update may be appropriate.
Types Of Will Changes Made By Codicil
Explore types of will changes made by codicil in the United Kingdom and when a codicil may help update an existing will.
Codicil Signing And Witnessing Requirements
United Kingdom codicil signing and witnessing rules explained clearly to help you update your will correctly and confidently.
Common Codicil Mistakes And How To Avoid Them
Learn common codicil mistakes in the United Kingdom and how to avoid them when updating your will clearly and legally.
Should You Use a Codicil or Make a New Will in the United Kingdom?
Decide whether to use a codicil or make a new will in the United Kingdom with this clear, practical flowchart guide.
Codicil Versus New Will Decision Guide
UK guide to choosing a codicil or new will, with key factors to help you update your estate plans confidently.
Information Needed To Prepare A Codicil
Learn what information is needed to prepare a codicil in the United Kingdom and update your will clearly and accurately.
What Type of Codicil Do You Need in the United Kingdom?
Find the right codicil in the United Kingdom to update your Will clearly, legally, and confidently with this practical flowchart.
Codicil Storage And Record Keeping Options
Explore codicil storage and record keeping options in the United Kingdom to help protect and locate estate planning documents.
Codicil Glossary Of Terms
United Kingdom codicil glossary explaining key terms for understanding and updating a will with confidence.
Events That May Prompt A Codicil Review
UK guide to life events that may prompt a codicil review, helping you keep your will accurate and up to date.
Codicil Pre Signing Checklist
United Kingdom codicil pre-signing checklist to help you review key details before updating your will.
How to Sign and Witness a Codicil in the United Kingdom?
Learn how to sign and witness a codicil in the United Kingdom with key steps to help ensure valid execution.
 
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