Does destroying a Will with intent to revoke it revive the previous Will?

Yes.

As long as the original of the previous will exists. Photocopies of the original will may be inadmissible.

It's always best to make a new will that specifically revokes all previous wills.

Just relying on destroying the current will might not work.

 

In the U.S. the answer is that it depends on the applicable state law and all the facts. It is not automatic that previous will becomes effective; it may be that the estate becomes intestate instead. As for how it is handled in the UK, I don't know. UK and US law have a number of similarities in their laws, but they are not the same and I don't know UK law very well. My guess is that Jack doesn't either.

I suggest you ask your question on a forum dedicated to UK law. This one focuses on US law.

 

I would think that who is destroying it could be a factor.

But in any case, it is not a sure fire way to revoke a will. Less than 60 seconds with my favorite search engine confirmed that destroying a true copy of a will does not always work. There was specifically a case in Canada illustrating this.

If this is intended as a plot device for a story, go for it.

If you (or someone you know) are tempted to toss someone else's will in a shredder... just don't.

If you want to change your own will back to a previous version, consult a legal professional about the correct way to do so.

 

This site is for United States Law.

 

Oops. Didn't notice the UK thing.

 

Talk to a third solicitor.

 

These UK solicitors/barristers answer your query, mate.

Lost, Damaged Or Destroyed Wills | Mullis & Peake

https://www.inbrief.co.uk/estate-law/revocation-of-a-will/

The revocation of wills in English and Spanish law | ICR Translations


Cancelling Your Previous Last Will And Testament

Revoking a Will by destroying it

Wills