While it’s 2019 and DIY (do it yourself) projects are all the rage, your will really isn’t something that you should take on alone. There are many writing tools online that are able to assist you, but in order to ensure it is done correctly, you should create one through a lawyer. When it comes to a matter as serious as creating a will, getting professional help is essential.
No Errors
If there is a mistake in your will, you won’t be around to correct it or tell everyone what you are wanting. Even in matters where someone’s wish is not clear enough it can become an issue. Many common errors found on a will include: forgetting to sign the will, forgetting to update the will, not telling someone where your will is kept and adding things improperly causing the will to be null and void. Using a lawyer to create a will can help to make such a difficult time a lot less stressful.
Handwritten Wills Can Be Invalid
In some cases, handwritten wills may not be recognized by the courts if the necessary guidelines aren’t followed. The will needs to be witnessed and in most cases, it should be notarized. The law will vary by the state you reside in, so be sure to look up laws specific to your state if you decide to take this task on alone. However, using a lawyer will require much less researching because they will already be aware of every step you need to take and what’s required for your state.
You May Not Think of Everything
Many people who write their own will do it with certain assumptions that may not actually happen. For instance, what happens if you will property to a spouse, but you outlive that spouse? Or, if you outlive children who are designated as your beneficiaries what will happen then? Working with an experienced lawyer will make sure that you cover every possible scenario which you could encounter.
Vague Words Cause Problems
When it comes to using DIY wills and online help, most of these use wording that can be very vague and easily misinterpreted. Getting help from a lawyer will mean that your will is written in standard language that is understood by executors of the will, officers of the court and your beneficiaries.
Mestayer Law Firm provides civil litigation for clients throughout the Gulf Coast area including Pascagoula, Biloxi, and Gulfport. If you are making future plans for your estate, then contact us today and let us help take care of every detail of your finances. Call us today at 228-762-1193 or visit www.pascagoulalaw.com. We are your legal experts! You can also visit our office located at 2128 Ingalls Ave. in Pascagoula, Mississippi. We look forward to talking with you!
No representation is made that the quality of the legal services to be performed is greater than the quality of legal services performed by other lawyers.
This article does not create an attorney-client relationship. I am licensed to practice law in Mississippi and have based the information presented on US laws. This article is legal information and is for entertainment and informational purposes only and should not be seen as legal advice. You should consult with an attorney before you rely on this information. Any information provided in this blog is accurate and true to the best of my knowledge, but that there may be omissions, errors or mistakes.