When preparing your own will, it is easy to overlook some legal formalities that could cost you (or others) much more than you think. One of these is having proper witnesses for your will. It is a requirement to have two witnesses to witness your signature on a will....
Latest News
Will kits
DIY
I’ve talked about doing your will yourself many times before, and I always start by saying I’m biased in this regard, because I am. I draft wills for a living, so I obviously am going to recommend getting a lawyer to draft your will instead of doing it yourself. But...
Put it in writing
It’s not uncommon to hear of someone who promises a certain item to someone on their death, or mentions the way their will is set up. What is less is to find out that person actually followed through with that plan – in writing. In estates law, as in almost...
The perils of homemade wills (and wills done by lawyers who don’t draft wills regularly)
I hear it all the time: people want to get their wills done, but are concerned about the cost. I get it; I do this for a living, and I know that it’s not cheap, especially when compared to a will kit. It sometimes can also be cheaper to get your friend the family...
Why a lawyer is your friend
I’ve posted before about the value of using a lawyer over a will kit, but here are some more reasons if you need them. Lawyers: Listen to your goals and make sure they are reflected in your documents. Offer advice on structuring your assets beyond just the will. Are...
How much is your estate plan worth?
I subscribe to Groupon and WagJag for group buying deals. I’ve gotten some good ones – detailing for my car, gift certificates to some of my favourite restaurants, even video-to-DVD transfer so I can finally watch myself learn how to scuba dive. However, I was more...