When it comes to making a will, many of us are tempted to grab a quick will kit from the post office, also known as do-it-yourself (DIY) Wills. It’s cheap, it’s convenient, and it promises to get the job done.

However, when you’re talking about something as important as your final wishes and your family’s financial future, and who gets what, a $25 will kit often won’t cut it.

We provide the following reasons why it is better to see a lawyer than grab one of these kits.

1. A Will Kit is One-Size-Fits-All – You’re Not!

A post office will kit gives you blank spaces to fill in on a template.

It doesn’t ask about:

·        Your family dynamics (like second marriages, blended families, or estranged relatives)

·        Whether you own a business

·        Superannuation

·        Property ownership in multiple states

·        Guardianship of children

·        Complex gifts, trusts or tax issues

     In short, it treats everyone the same, even though everyone’s situation is different.

A lawyer, on the other hand, will:

·        Ask the right questions

·        Understand your assets, relationships, and wishes

·        Draft a will tailored to your unique circumstances

This means fewer mistakes and a document that actually works the way you intend – rather than facing complications for your loved ones and executors if these other important factors have been ignored or missed.

2. Will Kits Don’t Give Legal Advice

A will kit does not provide you with options as to what you should do. It just gives you a form and some instructions.

The Will kit cannot explain what happens if:

·        Someone you leave something to dies before you

·        You want to exclude a family member

·        You jointly own property

·        Your super fund does not automatically go to your estate

Lawyers do more than “fill in the blanks.” They provide you with legal advice in your best interests. They make sure your will is legally sound, that it matches your estate planning goals, and that it can stand up in court if it is ever challenged.

3. Simple Mistakes Can Make a Will Invalid

One of the most common problems with DIY wills is incorrect signing and witnessing.

A will can be ruled invalid for the following reasons (not-exhaustive):

·        It is not signed correctly

·        The witnesses are not present at the same time

·        Changes are made after signing

·        The testator’s intentions are not clear.

Even a small mistake could render your estate ending up in court – costing your loved ones thousands in legal fees and months, if not years, of stress.

When you use a lawyer, these risks are ruled out.

4. Life Changes and So Should Your Will

Marriages, divorces, new children, property purchases are all significant events in life.

A lawyer can help you update your will easily and legally when those changes happen. A DIY Will kit cannot remind you when your will is out of date or invalid because of a major life event.

5. The Cost Difference Isn’t as Big as You May Think

          Yes, a DIY Will kit is cheap up front. But it can cost your family far more later if               there’s uncertainty, mistakes, or disputes.

          A properly drafted will is an investment in peace of mind – knowing your loved              ones will not be left sorting out legal messes after you’re gone.

6. You Get Clarity, Confidence, and Care

         Lawyers take the time to understand your situation and your wishes.

         You’ll walk away with:

• A clear, legally valid will
• Advice tailored to your personal and financial circumstances
• Confidence that your estate will be handled exactly how you want

         That’s something a post office Will kit simply cannot offer!

Summary

       A DIY Will kit might seem like a quick fix, but when it comes to protecting your               family and your legacy, “quick and cheap” often turns out costly and ineffective.