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Would Max George’s ‘phone will’ have held up in court?

Amjed Zaman | Would Max George’s ‘phone will’ have held up in court?

Max George, the heartthrob from boy band The Wanted, recently made headlines - but not for a chart-topping hit. Instead, the 36-year-old revealed that, moments before undergoing heart surgery, he hastily typed out a DIY will on his phone, fearing for his life.

Max confessed he didn’t have a valid will in place and was deeply worried about his family and partner. In an effort to protect them, he used his phone to document how he wanted his assets divided. Heartwarming? Yes. Legally binding? Unfortunately, no.

Why Max’s smartphone will wouldn’t work

Under UK law, a valid will must meet strict requirements set out by the Wills Act of 1837. It needs to be:

  1. In writing (yes, even in the digital age, ‘writing’ doesn’t include your phone notes).
  2. Signed by the person making the will (the ‘testator’).
  3. Witnessed by two people who also sign it in the testator’s presence.

While Max’s intentions were clear, his phone will didn’t check these legal boxes. As a result, his assets wouldn’t have been distributed as he intended. Instead, they’d have been handled by the ‘intestacy rules’, a rigid set of guidelines that could leave loved ones - like Max’s girlfriend - without any direct inheritance.

The risks of DIY wills

Even if Max’s will had been signed and witnessed, DIY wills can be tricky. The wording needs to be crystal clear to reflect the testator’s wishes, and small mistakes can lead to big problems.

This isn’t just Max’s issue - it’s a widespread one.

Shocking stats: The UK’s will crisis

A staggering 56% of UK adults don’t have a valid will, according to the National Will Register. Why?

  • 33% believe they don’t have enough assets to bother.
  • 10% think their estate is too simple to need one.
  • 40% admit they simply haven’t got around to it.
  • 10% don’t even know how to start.

This lack of planning leaves families vulnerable to legal complications and uncertainty, especially when the intestacy rules kick in.

What happens if you die without a will?

If you pass away without a valid will, the law decides who gets what. This can lead to messy situations, such as:

  • Ex-partners inheriting assets if you're still legally married or in a civil partnership.
  • Children or grandchildren claiming parts of your estate - even if that wasn’t your intention.
  • Loved ones facing stress and uncertainty over how assets are divided.

Without a will, your estate could end up in the hands of people you never intended to benefit, leaving your true loved ones out in the cold.

Protect what matters most

Max George’s story is a cautionary tale: life is unpredictable, and leaving your assets to chance is a risk not worth taking.

At LCF Law, we specialise in creating wills tailored to your unique needs. Whether your estate is straightforward or complex, we’ll ensure your wishes are clearly documented and legally binding. Plus, we can help you explore tax-efficient estate planning options to protect your loved ones and your legacy.

Don’t leave your family guessing - or worse, battling legal red tape. Contact Personal Law Partner Amjed Zaman for help and advice on 01274 386 990 or ku.oc1738872225.fcl@1738872225namaz1738872225a1738872225.

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