Technology has made estate planning easier to implement and more accessible to a broader audience. DIY estate planning is a growing business, promising to do the work for the consumer. Unfortunately, these services often lack depth and fail to protect the consumer. Here are three reasons you should avoid DIY wills and trusts.
1. Online Templates Are Insufficient
A lot of web templates are based on generic, state-wide legal documents. They follow the exact language requirement that they are required to follow, so they leave out a lot of important information. These documents can have irrelevant details or ambiguous wording, leading to uncertainty or conflict among family members. This can lead to disagreements and contests in court. Online estate planning tools are rarely reviewed or updated. They often contain outdated information, which may also lead to legal issues in the event of a dispute.
2. No Personalized Solutions
The DIY tools are a one-size-fits-all approach and do not fit your needs. Many people with simple wills later discovered that it did not take some things into account. Special clauses need to be included to ensure the will is honored in another state with different laws. These clauses may sound normal to a lawyer well versed in the law, but they can cause confusion or frustration for an average consumer. Every estate plan is unique. An attorney can help you create a customized solution that will meet your situation.
3. No Customer Support
Customers never have direct contact with the legal professionals who helped create their will or trust. After paying their money and signing their name, they are often left on their own. There is no follow-up to ensure the will was correctly drafted or to address any concerns. In some cases, DIY estate planning documents may have been filled out incorrectly or with missing information. It is not known until a legal issue arises. Get an attorney to communicate with you and help you through the process. They can be your advocate during the proceedings, keeping things on track and ensuring that your wishes are followed.
There are a lot of intricate details that go into the process of estate planning. A will or trust can be thrown out in court if approached incorrectly. A lawyer specializing in estate planning and wills can help you create a will or trust tailored to your needs. They can also help you avoid typical pitfalls that lead to legal difficulties down the road. It is well worth the time and money to get professional help. FIDE Law, PLC is your best option for a legal professional who will help you navigate through the legal system. Contact us today to learn more about our estate planning services.
