August 14, 2017

You know you need to set up a will and perhaps a trust, too. A Google search reveals a broad range of websites that promise to help you do just that either for free or a minimal cost. Pointing and clicking, though, is a dangerous approach to take with your estate planning. 

Using an online site to put together estate planning documents like a power of attorney, a trust or will is appealing if you think that you might not be able to afford to shell out a few hundred dollars for an estate planning lawyer, or in situations in which you need the paperwork settled quickly. However, there can be major risks associated with doing this, particularly if you have an issue that requires legal oversight like caring for a special needs child to protect him or her being cut off from government benefits, or if your financial situation is complex.

If you have an uncomplicated estate, it’s still a good idea to schedule a consultation with an experienced estate planning attorney because you can get further insight about how relevant laws and regulations affect you as well as further strategies that can help to protect you and carry out your wishes. With so many things that must be accomplished and even the most basic of estate planning documents, it can be a mistake to assume that a generic form is capable of capturing all of the information you will need to have your wishes carried out once you pass away.

Far too many people never even realize the negative impacts of failing to take action because their family members will be the ones sorting out conflicts and unresolved issues after the loved one passes away. Do your family a favor and schedule a consultation with an experienced estate planning attorney so that you can learn more about the benefits provided by estate planning.