Online Wills warning
02/06/2009
A LANCASHIRE solicitor is warning that filling in an online Will in a bid to cut costs could end up being more expensive and less effective than a regular one.
According to Eve Austin, a solicitor in Napthens solicitors’ Chorley office, and member of Solicitors for the Elderly - a national association of lawyers specialising in acting for older and vulnerable adults - online Wills are becoming more popular as people seek to save money.
However, Eve warns that she is increasingly hearing of problems concerning cheap or free Wills services, which are automated online. Some of these services also make money storing the Will, something which solicitors do not usually charge for.
Now the expert is warning anybody thinking of making a Will to get proper advice.
Eve said: “Solicitors are often asked to check, for free, Wills which have been made online. This can cause problems as a solicitor will want to see a client face to face to ensure they understand what it is they are doing, and that they have the mental capacity to sign a Will.
“When a solicitor prepares a Will, an identity check is also carried out to ensure the person is who they are claiming to be, and to make sure they are not being bullied into it. A solicitor will also provide information on subjects as far reaching as tax considerations and care fees.
“A Will is one of the most important documents a person can put together, and it can play a key role in ensuring their loved ones are secure and will be looked after in the event of that person’s death.
“A Will drawn up incorrectly is more trouble than it is worth, and can end up just causing more heartache.”
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