Revocation of Wills

Question 1

How can a will be revoked?

Answer 1

Under s.20 Wills Act 1837, a will is revoked by:
Executing a new will (implied revocation).
Marriage or civil partnership, unless the will was made in contemplation of marriage.
Physical destruction (e.g., burning, tearing) with intent to revoke.

Question 2

Does divorce revoke a will?

Answer 2

No, but under s.18A Wills Act 1837, the former spouse is treated as having predeceased the testator.

Question 3

What happens if a will is revoked and no new will is made?

Answer 3

The estate will be distributed under intestacy rules (Administration of Estates Act 1925).