Would you feed your medical symptoms into an online form and have your condition diagnosed without seeing or speaking to anyone? Just as importantly, would you entrust your estate planning to someone who has not met you and knows only about you what you have provided to them? You may think you know how your estate should be distributed after you die, but you won’t know the legislation, the probate rules or the case law that affects Wills and Estates. Your Lawyer will.
Each client’s personal circumstances are particular to them. An online form is no substitute for a consultation with an experienced estate planning lawyer. There are many circumstances that need careful consideration and advice including:
- second marriages, or
- that you own your property as joint tenants or tenants in common? Do you even know how your property is held? or
- what forms part of your estate and what does not? or
- that you wish to leave someone out of your Will? or
- that you have a child from a previous relationship you wish to receive part of your estate? or
- Your circumstances may warrant the setting up of a Testamentary Trust. Who online is going to advise you of that?
Importantly, the discussion you have with a professional may alert you to the need reorganise some of your affairs now while you are able to do so. And you may be warned of traps and pitfalls in recent developments and cases.
Accountants have regular reviews with their client. Legal reviews, whilst perhaps not needing to be as regular, are just as important.
You’ve spent years building up the assets which will form part of your estate. Do you want to put them at risk, or have them fall into the wrong hands just because you wanted to save money?
Online Wills may appear to be an inexpensive way to provide for your loved ones after you die, however saving money may be a false economy in the long run. Having a Will tailored to your needs by an experienced estate planning Lawyer can often avoid potential disputes, ensure that your Will is appropriate for your circumstances and provide advice in relation to potential pitfalls.
Do you know that there are certain requirements when you sign a Will? Did you know that the will writer and the witnesses all have to be in the same room at the same time and use the same pen? That if you get it wrong it may invalidate the will or at least cause cost to your estate? There is current legislation in place which allows for the electronic witnessing of Wills during the Covid-19 pandemic, but do you know how to comply with that legislation?
Talk to a Lawyer who can advise you properly on your estate planning.
Your loved ones will thank you.
Contact Us
For further information please contact Audrey Diliberto at Matthews Folbigg on 9806 7427 or by email at AudreyD@matthewsfolbigg.com.au
