Let’s be honest — talking about wills isn’t something any of us look forward to. It feels a bit heavy, doesn’t it? But if you're a Muslim living in the UK (or anywhere really), there’s an important question you might be asking yourself: How do I make sure my will reflects both my faith and the law?
That’s exactly where an Islamic will lawyer comes in.
I’ve had this conversation with countless people — professionals in their 30s just starting to build their estates, parents wanting to make sure their kids are looked after, even retirees finally getting around to ticking “make a will” off their to-do list. The concern is always the same: "I want to follow Islamic inheritance rules, but I also want my will to be legally valid here."
So, what is an Islamic will exactly?
An Islamic will (or Wasiyyah, as it's called in Arabic) isn’t just about writing down who gets what. It’s rooted in clear, divine guidance — the Quran actually outlines specific shares for certain family members. It's not like a typical will where you decide who gets everything. Instead, a large portion of your estate is already allocated by Sharia.
But there's still room to personalise — up to one-third of your estate can be distributed to others of your choice, like a charity, a friend, or someone in need. This one-third can make a big difference, and it needs to be handled correctly.
Also, an Islamic will should cover things beyond just money — like burial instructions, debt repayments, even catching up on missed obligations such as unpaid Zakat or unperformed Hajj (if it was obligatory).
Why do you need a lawyer who understands all this?
Here’s the deal — not every solicitor understands Islamic inheritance. And not every imam understands UK probate law. You need someone who can navigate both worlds.
An Islamic will lawyer ensures:
Your will meets Sharia requirements.
It’s legally binding under UK law.
It’s clear and precise — so no confusion or family arguments later on.
It’s tailored to your situation, your family, your assets, and your faith.
And let me say this — it’s not just about ticking a legal box. It’s about honouring your religious duty and making life a little easier for your loved ones when the time comes.
What does an Islamic will usually include?
A well-drafted Islamic will covers:
The rightful shares for each heir (according to the Quran).
Naming a trustworthy executor (wasi).
That optional one-third of your estate — who do you want it to go to?
Debt settlements, including unpaid dowry or Zakat.
Burial and funeral preferences.
Guardianship of children.
Any missed religious duties that should be fulfilled on your behalf.
How do you choose the right lawyer?
You want someone who knows Islamic inheritance inside out and has the legal know-how to make it enforceable in the UK. That’s not something you find every day, so here’s what I always recommend looking for:
Experience in both Islamic wills and estate law.
Clear understanding of Sharia — not just general knowledge, but someone who respects the detail and nuance.
Qualifications to practise law in the UK.
A reputation for being thorough and compassionate.
Someone who listens — really listens — to what matters to you.
A final thought
The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said, “It is not permissible for any Muslim who has something to will to stay for two nights without having his last will and testament written and kept ready with him.”
That hits home, doesn’t it?
If you’ve been putting it off, consider this your sign to act. Whether your estate is large or modest, whether you’re newly married or thinking ahead for your children, an Islamic will isn’t just about money — it’s about responsibility, faith, and leaving behind clarity, not confusion.
At Farani Taylor Solicitors, we’ve helped hundreds of families across London and beyond create Islamic wills that honour both their faith and their legal obligations. Whether you're looking for guidance in Central London, or need trusted legal support close to home, our team is available at our City Office, Ilford Office, and Norbury Office.
We’re especially proud to be known among the best solicitors in Norbury for Islamic estate planning — a recognition that comes from our deep respect for our clients' values and our commitment to getting every detail right.
