Online Wills: Who Defends Your Last Wishes?

When should you invest in a lawyer-prepared will? Should you make one now, when you buy and house, or have a child? What is the goal of your estate plan? Why do I ask about your estate planning? Because I believe you do it for the people you leave behind.

Some people are afraid to discuss estate planning to protect their loved ones. They are afraid to jinx themselves or to discuss their funerals. Others want to arrange all the details of their funerals. There is no one estate plan that suits everyone.

That is the secret to creating a successful estate plan for the people you leave behind.

Estate Plans Are Not One-Size-Fits-All

Creating your estate plan which includes making your will. Many people will want to save money by using online will service because is easy and the costs fits their budget.

I have shown people how to ensure that their money goes directly to the people they care for without unnecessary delays or disputes. There is no reason to wait until your doctor asks you, “Are you affairs in order?”

There are times when wills are contested in court. Disputes cannot always be avoided when a person dies. You do not need to have a lot money to have family take different sides in court. Will disputes are emotional and happen even in the best of circles.

Pennies Saved Making Wills

Do you know someone who saved money making a will online? Is it now being contested, or does it need to be interpreted by a judge? Who is going to court to defend the deceased’s final wishes?

If you use a will lawyer to prepare your will, lawyers are insured for any errors that may arise. They are treated as expert witnesses in court.

Sure, they have up-to-date looking websites. But flashy sites does not mean their software is specific or up-to-date for the laws of your province. You may feel less intimated to answer questions

Legal Advice and Comfort

Most people need legal advice to make their estate plans and wills. Only a lawyer can provide that legal advice on family, property and estate law.

• who will serve as an estate executor or trustee for minor children
• who will have decision-making responsibility for your children
• who is designated as beneficiaries of assets and how is this done
• how you can reduce provincial estate tax and federal income tax
• who can wind up or sell your business
• what happens if you inherit more assets
• what happens if you separate or divorce
• do you need a trust for beneficiaries who cannot manage their inheritance
• the difference between powers of attorney for property and personal care

Who Defends Your Will If You Make It Online?

If you used a do-it-yourself form or online service, who can defend your will in court, if necessary? Who will take your side? Most online services state they are not responsible for providing legal advice. They only offer guidance and do not guarantee what you sign will be legal.

Courts must know who prepared the online documents before they were signed.

I can help you get started to make your will. I offer a no-obligation meeting to discuss your options. Arrange a meeting now.

Take advantage of this meeting by Zoom or in-person in my Toronto west end office. Contact me today.

I am a Certified Specialist in Estates and Trusts Law. I can give you expert tips to end your worries.