Change the law so that marriage does not automatically cancel a person’s will

63
signatures
closedMinistry of JusticeOpened 16 December 2025Closed 16 June 2026

Background

Under the current law when someone gets married any will they made before that marriage is automatically cancelled. Most people do not know this they believe their existing will still stands. But this is not the case if they remarry and die.

Additional details

We believe the law is unfair and outdated. We ask Parliament to change the law so that marriage no longer automatically revokes a will or to create a fairer legal safeguard; for example, a clear opt-in choice when registering a marriage to ensure people are not unintentionally disinheriting their families. This isn’t about taking sides between first or second families but about fairness and awareness. People should not lose control over their legacy simply because they weren’t aware of this little known rule.

Where it’s popular

Constituencies with the most signatures on this petition.

Source: UK Government & Parliament Petitions service. Petition ID: 750658.