Thinking of a DIY Kit for your Will? Did you buy a Deed from the office supply store, or maybe you got these documents online?
On a regular basis, I hear horror stories about documents improperly filled out by individuals: trying to save a few bucks, avoid a lawyer’s office or they think their situation is simple.
Here are some alerts for you:
Alert 1. Few issues are simple when you start to peel back all the layers of a matter. In many instances, the issues are challenging and multifaceted.
Alert 2. These are legal documents. One misstep in the way you prepare them can be costly. The costs are not just in dollars and cents.
Alert 3. The time, stress and money that may be needed to address such mistakes can be a lot more than you thought you were avoiding in the first place.
FYI about DIY documents: It is common for me to receive distress calls from overwhelmed family members who are on the verge of tears.
As I listen, loved ones share stories of how, the bank refused to accept mom’s Power of Attorney, the title company can not close on the sale of a home because of a title defect in a DIY Deed, or the Will that wasn’t witnessed properly is invalid.
Now that you have the 3 Alerts, get help from an attorney who can provide you with legal guidance about your particular situation. Remember, estate planning is one area where – one size does not fit all.
Aquanetta J. Betts is an attorney and speaker. She focuses her practice on wills, trusts, estates and charitable giving. She is licensed in the District of Columbia and Maryland. Connect with her on twitter @AquanettaBetts.
This article is for informational purposes only and not intended to provide legal advice.
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