The Perils of Internet Wills

We use the internet for just about everything these days. Of course, not all the information and services available online turn out to be what they claim. Online will form and estate planning websites are prime examples – we've all heard the ads from companies offering “self- help” legal services online, selling software and forms that people can download for less than the cost of a tank of gas.

Preparing a will or any other estate planning document is one of the most important legal services that many people ever need.
Does it make sense to entrust these issues to some form created by people in another state who have never met you and don’t know anything about you or your family? The answer is no.

In our practice, we get calls all the time from people asking questions about their internet wills or wanting us to review them and “see if they are correct.” Typically, these forms are not correct, and certainly not optimal. Even if they are marginally adequate, the client has little knowledge of what the documents actually mean and certainly never had a chance to ask questions or learn about other or better options.

Buying a Cheap Online Will Can Cost You in the Long Run

Saving money is a good thing, but buying an impossibly cheap will online is not saving you any money. The problems and unnecessary costs that an online will can create for your family in the future isn’t worth the cost savings today. Most people can meet with an experienced attorney and have a professionally drafted will, designed to meet their particular needs, prepared and properly executed for less than the cost of a typical car payment.

The Importance of a Professionally Prepared Will or Trust

A professionally prepared, well-drafted will or trust is the very best thing a person can do to protect their loved ones and plan for the certainty of death. Meeting personally with an experienced wills and estates lawyer is vital in this process. A good Wake Forest wills attorney will explain the options, answer your questions and learn about the particular needs and interests of your family. The online DIY “self- help” company does not do this.

You work your entire life to build and save for yourself and your family, and having your will and estate plan prepared by an experienced attorney is an investment well worth making.

And we’re not just saying all this because we are attorneys. Here is a non-attorney authored article on Forbes.com on, “The Case Against Do-It-Yourself Wills.”

Contact an Estate Planning Attorney

At The Doyle Law Offices, P.A. we have the dedication and experience to protect your assets and loved ones through knowledgeable wills and estate planning and provide the professional legal services you deserve. We serve clients in Wake Forest, Raleigh, Rolesville, and surrounding areas. Schedule your consultation today.