Pitfalls Of Do-It-Yourself Wills
Brooklyn Estate Planning Attorney
Some people assume that a do-it-yourself will is a sufficient document of their wishes. However, New York has specific requirements regarding drafting a valid will. Failing to follow these procedures is the same as not having a will at all.
Polizzotto & Polizzotto, LLC, is an established estate planning law firm in Brooklyn. We encourage clients to contact an attorney for all their estate planning needs to ensure that their wishes regarding the transfer of assets, guardianship of their children and other estate decisions are executed appropriately.
Our estate planning lawyers help clients draft last wills and testaments that meet state requirements. Contact us today for a consultation.
Why Hire An Attorney To Draft Your Will?
Pitfalls of do-it-yourself wills include:
- Losing the opportunity to make decisions regarding the division of your estate and guardianship of your children
When someone dies intestate (without a valid will), New York state statutes control the division of the estate among the spouse and children. Having an attorney write your will can ensure that your assets are given to those you choose. In addition, you can choose the guardian of your child.
- Creating the possibility for family disputes
Do-it-yourself wills can be easily changed and updated. As a result, overzealous relatives may take advantage of an elderly loved one to write or alter the will in their favor. We make sure our clients have the capacity to write and change their wills, thus reducing the likelihood of bitter family disputes and court battles.
- Adding expensive court costs
If you write a will without it being notarized by a lawyer, you risk forcing your family into legal battles after your death. While a do-it-yourself will may be cheaper in the short term, it could cost your family thousands of dollars in litigation later.
If you need legal assistance in drafting a will or reviewing a self-written will, contact Polizzotto & Polizzotto, LLC, in Brooklyn.