Calling in the Professionals

Writing a will is a serious undertaking, and hiring a professional to help is crucial. Five reasons why individuals should hire an attorney to help prepare a will are below:

1. Cost: An attorney can create a will, depending on the complexity of the estate, for around $1,000. This cost is minimal considering the big picture of estate planning and the affect it has on future generations.
2. Avoiding Mistakes: Individuals who try to draft their own will often make serious mistakes. These mistakes can cause serious issues during probate and are easily avoidable if a professional is called in to help.
3. Specific Language: Wills require specific, straight-forward language, and many times “homemade” wills use vague language that is easily misinterpreted.
4. Contingencies: Individuals who create their own wills often fail to consider the numerous contingencies that could affect his or her wishes (e.g. if the testator outlives an heir).
5. Handwritten Wills: A court may not recognize a handwritten will as being valid unless it follows proper guidelines. States vary on laws covering handwritten wills, and hiring an attorney can help ensure that the testator creates a valid will.

See 5 Reasons to Get Professional Help Writing Your Will, Forbes, Nov. 18, 2011.

Special thanks to Jim Hillhouse (WealthCounsel) for bringing this article to my attention.