Oftentimes people will attempt to save money by not consulting with an attorney when executing their will or choose to use a pre-printed form or online program. Attorneys spend countless hours learning the ins and outs of the legal system and they are there to benefit you.
A sobering example illustrates what happens when you fill out legal documents where you may not have a solid understanding of seemingly minor intricacies.
A recent client came in, explaining that he was about to inherit a large amount of money, well over the lifetime estate tax exclusions, without any proper planning. The client’s son had filled out an online do it yourself Will thinking that he would be fine. Unfortunately, the client’s son did not attach the necessary documents the Will required and so the court was left unable to interpret what the Will intended and THREW IT OUT. We ultimately will never know exactly what the client’s son wanted to happen with his money, but with proper planning he could have easily avoided paying millions in estate taxes, and his legacy in place. He might not have even wanted his father to inherit ALL of his estate, but given Florida’s intestacy laws, that is exactly what is going to happen.
Now the client must be reactive instead of proactive, and his options have been limited.
This happens all too often. Do not use online legal documents, they may sound nice and helpful, but they do not replace the expertise of a licensed attorney! If you have any questions about the validity of your will and what you want to happen when you pass away, please do not hesitate to call Postillion law at 904-615-6621, or visit us at www.Postillionlaw.comAs always, do not hesitate to ask questions, that is why we are here!