Making a will is often associated with older generations, but legal experts in Ireland are warning that younger people should also start thinking about putting their affairs in order. Despite its importance, only about one-third of Irish adults have made a formal will, leaving the majority without clear instructions for their estate in the event of death.
Solicitors say this lack of preparation can lead to unnecessary complications for families. Joanne Leetch, Senior Associate Solicitor at Callan Tansey Solicitors, stressed that creating a will is less about morbidity and more about responsibility. “It is so important for young people to make wills, even a basic one is sufficient. It’s about control, clarity, and care for those you leave behind,” she explained.
Anyone over the age of 18—or married—can legally make a will, provided they are of sound mind. A valid will must be in writing, signed in front of two witnesses, and signed again by those witnesses in the testator’s presence. While some choose to draft a will themselves, solicitors advise seeking legal guidance to ensure accuracy.
Experts suggest there is no fixed age to begin the process, but major life events such as buying property, marrying, or having children should prompt individuals to act. Elaine Byrne, a solicitor specialising in wills and probate, recalled a young client who carefully arranged for his collection of Pokémon cards and memorabilia to pass to his partner rather than his estranged father. “Assets can mean more than houses or land—they are anything of value that matters to you,” Byrne said.
Dying without a will—known as dying intestate—means the estate is distributed under the Succession Act 1965. For many young people, this would mean assets automatically pass to parents, even if that does not reflect their wishes. Without a will, unmarried partners or cohabiting couples are not automatically entitled to inherit, which can create serious difficulties.
Wills also allow parents to appoint guardians for minor children and nominate executors to handle funeral arrangements and estate management. They can even be structured to optimise tax reliefs. Costs for preparing a standard will typically range from €150 to €250 plus VAT, with the process generally completed in two solicitor visits.
Legal experts say misconceptions remain a barrier. Many young people see wills as “morbid” or unnecessary, while others consider them too costly. “Younger people do not want to consider their own mortality. There is definitely a sense of discomfort with the topic,” Leetch said. However, she added that sudden and unexpected deaths among younger age groups highlight the need for planning.
Both Byrne and Leetch agree that encouraging incentives—such as workplace schemes—could help normalise the practice. For now, they continue to urge younger people to take control of their futures and provide peace of mind for loved ones.
