If you have the urge to do something DIY, you should stick to a project around your home. If you try to do a will on your own using documents that you purchase on the internet, your family can end up in a difficult situation when they need legal help the most.
There is a reason why the legal document websites say that their forms are not meant to be a substitute for a lawyer. A will is a crucial document, and everything in it must be right.
When you have a will, your estate will go through the probate process. In most cases, probate would pass without incident. However, the will may be challenged, or it may be vague and unclear. Courts would strictly interpret what they find in the will. They are largely not interested in trying to figure out what you meant when drafting the will. Thus, you may end up with unintended results if there are wrong words or even missing commas. If the will is challenged, there is a risk that the contest could be successful.
When you have an estate planning lawyer review your will before you sign, you get the peace of mind that comes from knowing that it will be done right. Your lawyer will draft your will, using their professional expertise to compose a document that expresses your wishes and does not contain any errors. While that is not a guarantee that probate will be 100% smooth, it will certainly reduce the chance for problems.
The attorneys at Naples & Spence work with families on estate planning solutions to make your life easier when you need it the most. To learn more, you can message us online or call us today at 904.657.7117.
