Do I need a lawyer to prepare my will?

There is no legal requirement to have a lawyer prepare your will. Then again, there is no legal requirement to have a mechanic fix your car or plumber fix a leaky pipe. However, using the home remedy example, many of us know someone ( never ourselves of course) that tried to do it themselves only to call in an expert later to fix a bigger problem caused by their lack of experience, knowledge and skill.

On TV these days, there is an ad advertising will kits for $ 29.95 ( plus taxes shipping and handling). There is a young couple with a baby and they feel very secure because they have just completed the blanks to prepare a will without the need of a lawyer. While they may not have needed a lawyer, their beneficiaries may very well retain one because:

The will may not have been properly executed according to the formal rules and may be a nullity
Disappointed family members may try to challenge the will. They may be more successful because there will be no lawyer to give evidence on the issues on mental capacity and competence to make a will

Indeed, it is a mistake to regard a lawyer as simply someone to fill in the blanks. While you may not require a sophisticated estate plan, a lawyer experienced in estate matters can bring relevant issues and estate planning techniques to your attention. As well, the lawyer can advise you as to how to minimize costly and bitter disputes among your beneficiaries

With a will, of course, if you make a mistake, it will not have an effect on you after you are gone, but, it may very well cause grief and tremendous expense for the loved ones you leave behind.

Here is something to consider. You have the right to control the planning of your disposition of your estate. Do you really want some else to make these important decisions for you? Safeguard your control.