6 Reasons to Hire a Lawyer to Write your Will

18 Jan 6 Reasons to Hire a Lawyer to Write your Will

It’s tempting to go online and use a free service to generate your will. After all, there are so many things we can do for free online these days. Why not create your will, too?

These DIY services are intentionally simple. They walk you through the process, step by step, culminating in a will that is legal and enforceable.

The problem is, their options are one-size-fits-all – but chances are, your life isn’t.

Estates today are complicated. Many Canadians have been married more than once, have children and assets shared across multiple partners, and hold a specific expectation about the right way to pass along their estate.

In most of these cases, it is not only a good idea to hire a lawyer, it is essential. A lawyer can:

1. Craft a specific will, tailor made for your circumstances. The most important service your lawyer can offer you is customization. During an initial meeting with your lawyer, you spend real time going over your family situation, relationships, assets and plans for your estate. The lawyer, who specializes in wills and estate planning, creates a will that reflects your wishes and protects your assets.
2. Ensure the will is legally binding. The law is complicated, and it is constantly evolving. Believe it or not, using the wrong language can actually render your will invalid. You can’t afford to make a mistake like that in your will. But while it would be impossible for a layman to stay on top of these details, your lawyer can.
3. Save you time. When choosing a lawyer, it’s important to select one that specializes in wills and estate planning. You don’t have time to do the research necessary to plan your own will, but a lawyer is an expert. He or she is familiar with the right language, the type of documents necessary, and any relevant tax considerations.
4. Help you protect your own interests. A will isn’t just about who inherits your house or your retirement savings. The right lawyer will watch out for you, including setting up powers of attorney for care and finances. He or she may also be able to help provide expert advice on the financial end, helping you to avoid probate fees and other taxes on your estate.
5. Consider all scenarios. What happens if your beneficiaries die before you do? What happens if you list an asset in your will that you no longer own? Even if you have specific ideas about what should happen to your estate, a lawyer can help you prepare for all possibilities, even the least likely ones.
6. Update your will regularly. Unfortunately, writing a will isn’t a one-and-done proposition. As time marches on, your family circumstances change and so do your assets and liabilities. But working with a lawyer means it’s easier to update your will regularly.

Those who create their will on their own usually make many mistakes. Consulting with a professional – a lawyer who specializes in wills and estate planning – may come with additional fees, but it’s money well spent.

To learn more about preparing your estate, contact us.

Joel Rose

With over 35 years of experience, Joel Rose helps families – and their businesses – to prepare for the future. He offers guidance and support to help his clients create estate plans and succession plans that meet the needs of the whole family. Through his extensive professional and personal experience, Joel is known for his compassion and his ability to find a creative solution to meet each family’s needs.