The Threat of Online Wills: Why Comprehensive Estate Planning Matters
In my over 35 years of experience in the estate planning industry, I've witnessed the landscape evolve significantly. As a Fellow of the Society of Will Writers, a member of their Professional Standards Board, an associate of TAS, and a full member of STEP (Society of Trust and Estate Practitioners), I have dedicated my career to providing families with the best possible estate planning solutions. However, I've also grown increasingly concerned about the rise of online Wills and the potential threats they pose to comprehensive estate planning.
The ease of accessing online Will services may give the impression that creating a Will is a simple and straightforward task. However, the reality is far more complex. Estate planning is not a one-size-fits-all solution, and the nuances of individual family situations can be intricate and unique. As the saying goes, "You don't know what you don't know," and this rings particularly true when it comes to estate planning.
Online Will services often provide templated documents that may appear sufficient on the surface but may not take into account the complexities of your family's dynamics, assets, and specific wishes. A basic online Will might cover the basics, but it may overlook crucial considerations, leaving your loved ones vulnerable to unexpected challenges. Often, seeking professional advice gives you confidence that should something go wrong, you’re protected through adequate insurance etc.
At SLS Wills and More, we understand that the allure of convenience may lead people to opt for online Wills. In response to this demand, we have developed an online offering of our own. However, it's essential to highlight that our approach is far from a simple, automated online document generator. We firmly believe that the quality and accuracy of estate planning documents should never be compromised.
Our online offering unlike many includes a thorough review of all documents and instructions by our experienced team. We recognise that each family's situation is unique, and our commitment is to ensure that every aspect of your estate planning is tailored to your specific needs.
But, this is only the tip of the iceberg when it comes to comprehensive estate planning. A truly professional and responsible Will writing service goes beyond document creation. We firmly believe that the process should encompass the proper execution of the Will, including ensuring it is signed correctly, witnessed accurately, and in compliance with all legal requirements (S.9 of the Wills Act).
This is where the team at SLS Wills and More is particularly passionate. We understand that the final steps in estate planning can be just as crucial as the initial document creation. Our commitment to our clients extends to offering a meticulous checking service, ensuring that every detail is accounted for and that your estate plan is ironclad.
While online Wills may seem like a convenient solution, they often fall short when it comes to comprehensive estate planning. Your family's financial and personal circumstances are unique, and a one-size-fits-all approach can leave you vulnerable to unforeseen challenges. As someone with extensive industry experience and a commitment to protecting your interests, I urge you to consider the complexities of your situation and the importance of working with professionals who truly understand your needs. At SLS Wills and More, we are dedicated to ensuring your estate plan is robust, tailored, and legally sound, from start to finish.