Writing a will is a vital task that everyone should undertake at some point in their lives. A will is a legal document that outlines your wishes about how you would like your assets to be distributed after your death. It’s important to seek professional advice when creating a will, as DIY wills can be dangerous and lead to unintended consequences. In this blog, we will discuss the dangers of making a DIY will and the importance of hiring a probate lawyer to help you create a will.
Why Are DIY Wills Risky?
Lack of Legal Knowledge
Creating a will requires an understanding of legal jargon, such as “testamentary capacity” and “executor,” which can be confusing for the average person. It’s essential to ensure that your will is legally valid, and this is where many DIY wills fall short. A DIY will may not be legally binding, which means that your wishes may not be followed. In addition, DIY wills may not account for all of the legal requirements, such as the witnesses and signatures needed for a will to be valid.
Incorrect or Incomplete Information
DIY wills can be dangerous because they often contain incorrect or incomplete information. This can lead to unintended consequences, such as assets being distributed in a way that you didn’t intend. For example, if you forget to include a specific asset in your will, it may not be distributed in the way you would have liked. Similarly, if you make a mistake with the wording of your will, it could lead to confusion and legal battles between your loved ones.
Contesting the Will
Contesting a will can be a lengthy and expensive process. If your will is contested, it can delay the distribution of your assets and cause unnecessary stress for your loved ones. A DIY will is more likely to be contested than a will created with the help of a probate lawyer. This is because a probate lawyer can help you create a clear and concise will that outlines your wishes in a way that is less likely to be disputed.
The Importance of Hiring a Probate Lawyer
A probate lawyer can help you create a legally valid will that outlines your wishes in a clear and concise manner. They can also help you to navigate the legal requirements for creating a will and ensure that all of the necessary information is included. In addition, a probate lawyer can help to reduce the likelihood of your will being contested, saving your loved ones time, money, and stress.
In conclusion, creating a DIY will can be dangerous and lead to unintended consequences. It’s important to seek professional advice when creating a will to ensure that it is legally valid and reflects your wishes accurately. At Richards & Lewis, we have a team of experienced wills and probate lawyers who can help you create a will that meets your needs. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.