Should I have a lawyer prepare my will?

There are certainly advantages to having a lawyer draw up your will. He or she has a lot of expertise that you can call upon in matters like tax consequences, trusts, making suitable arrangements for young children, and many other matters.

Wills have to be worded very carefully and precisely to make sure that exactly what you want comes to pass. Lawyers are used to careful use of language and are unlikely to make a mistake. In the unlikely event that the lawyer should make a mistake, there is insurance to cover the situation.

It is particularly important for some people to consult a lawyer about making a will:

• people with large and complex estates;
• people who are separated or getting divorces, so that their spouse doesn't inherit the estate;
• older or ill people who feel that they are being pressured or influenced by others; and
• people who are thinking about getting married.

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WARNING: The contents of these FAQs are intended as general legal information only.
If you have a personal problem, please consult a lawyer.