Lawyers or Online for Your Will? Here's the Difference

by Landmark Law

While online websites may offer a cheaper alternative for creating a will, there are several reasons why clients should consider getting their will done with a lawyer:

1. Legal Expertise: Lawyers have the necessary legal expertise to ensure that the will complies with all relevant laws and regulations. They can provide personalized advice tailored to the client's specific circumstances, ensuring that their wishes are accurately reflected in the document.

2. Customization: A lawyer can help clients customize their will to address unique family situations, asset distribution preferences, and potential future scenarios. Online templates may not account for all these complexities, leading to oversights or inaccuracies.

3. Complex Estates: For individuals with complex estates, such as multiple properties, investments, or business interests, a lawyer can provide invaluable guidance on estate planning strategies to minimize taxes and ensure efficient asset distribution.

4. Avoiding Errors: DIY wills often request the submission of Court Form 74D Affidavit of Execution and often times when individuals use DIY wills, the Exhibit stamp are missing. Other errors also include the will being improperly witnessed which in some cases render them invalid or lead to disputes among beneficiaries. Lawyers have the expertise to draft precise and legally sound documents, reducing the risk of complications down the line.

5. Updates and Amendments: Over time, circumstances may change, such as births, deaths, marriages, or divorces, which may necessitate updates to the will. Lawyers can provide ongoing support to ensure that the will remains up-to-date and reflective of the client's current wishes.

6. Executor Guidance: Executors play a crucial role in administering the will after the individual's passing. Lawyers can provide guidance to executors on their responsibilities and help navigate the probate process efficiently.

7. Peace of Mind: Working with a lawyer to create a will provides clients with peace of mind, knowing that their wishes will be legally documented and properly executed, minimizing the risk of disputes or challenges in the future.

While online services may offer convenience and cost savings, they may not provide the same level of personalized attention and legal expertise that a lawyer can offer. Ultimately, the decision to engage a lawyer for creating a will depends on the individual's preferences, complexity of their estate, and the importance of ensuring the document's accuracy and validity.