
The rise of online platforms offering do-it-yourself wills has made estate planning appear more accessible than ever. While these services offer convenience, they also come with significant risks. As a lawyer in Ontario, I believe the simplicity of online wills often masks their limitations, potentially leaving your estate and loved ones vulnerable.
Online will providers typically include disclaimers absolving them of liability for errors or misuse. This lack of accountability, combined with their one-size-fits-all approach, raises concerns about whether these tools can adequately address individual circumstances. Unlike professionally prepared wills, online forms often fail to account for complex or unique situations, such as:
Upcoming marriage or recent separation.
Ownership of foreign assets or business interests.
Minor children or dependents with special needs.
Requirements for dual wills to minimize probate taxes.
Cognitive impairment or recent hospitalization.
These are just a few scenarios where a standardized will template may fall short. Moreover, online services do not provide tailored tax advice or the in-depth legal expertise required to navigate the intricacies of estate planning.
A professionally drafted will ensures your intentions are clear, your loved ones are protected, and potential legal disputes are minimized. Lawyers bring not only expertise but also accountability, backed by insurance and continuous professional development, to safeguard your estate plan.
While online wills may seem cost-effective in the short term, they can lead to significant expenses and complications down the road. Investing in a lawyer-prepared will is a prudent choice that offers peace of mind, ensuring your estate is managed as intended.
DisclaimerÂ
The information in this post is provided for general informational purposes only and may not reflect the current law in your jurisdiction. No information contained in this post should be construed as legal advice from our firm or the individual author, nor is it intended to be a substitute for legal counsel on any subject matter. No reader of this post should act or refrain from acting on the basis of any information included in, or accessible through, this post without seeking the appropriate legal or other professional advice on the particular facts and circumstances at issue from a lawyer licensed in the recipient’s state, country or other appropriate licensing jurisdiction.Â